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–+ servings

Turkey Bolognese

This hearty sauce is made with lean ground turkey, vegetables, and crushed tomatoes for a cozy, lighter twist on a classic. Freezer-friendly and perfect for weeknights.
Yield: 7 cups
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients
 

  • 1 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey, 90 to 94% lean
  • ½ cup celery, finely diced (1 stalk)
  • ½ cup carrots, finely diced (1 small)
  • 1 large onion, finely diced (2 cups)
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, finely diced (1 medium)
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 4 to 5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Whole grain pasta
  • Optional garnish: Torn fresh basil leaves and Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • In a heavy bottom pot or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook, stirring frequently to break it up, about 6 minutes. Add the vegetables and cook for about 8 minutes, stirring frequently (mist with oil spray if the mixture becomes too dry). Veggies will begin to soften and caramelize.
  • Add 1 cup of broth, crushed tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan while stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring to a gentle boil and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Remove lid and cook for another 10 minutes, adding additional broth if needed to reach desired consistency. You want to create a thick rich sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spoon over pasta and garnish with optional Parmesan and basil.
  • The sauce will last up to 4 days in the fridge or you can freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

Notes

Nutrition provided for 1 cup of Bolognese sauce. If enjoying over pasta, add about 100 calories per half-cup.
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN

Nutrition Information per serving

Calories: 160Carbohydrates: 14gProtein: 16gTotal Fat: 7g— Unsaturated Fat: 6g— Saturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 330mgFiber: 4gTotal Sugar: 7g— Natural Sugar: 7g— Added Sugar: 0g
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.