Today, I’m sharing a recipe that brings comfort food to a whole new level: Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese. This dish is a healthier twist on the traditional Bolognese, using lean ground turkey instead of beef. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Let’s get started!

What is Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese?

Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese is a rich, hearty sauce made with ground turkey, tomatoes, and a blend of vegetables and spices. This sauce is simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together into a deliciously savory dish. It’s lighter than the classic beef Bolognese but just as satisfying, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy comfort food with a healthier twist.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Healthier alternative: Lean ground turkey makes this dish lighter and lower in fat.
Rich flavor: Slow-cooked to develop deep, savory flavors.
Versatile: Can be served over pasta, zucchini noodles, or even polenta.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Crowd-pleaser: A dish that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.
Ina Garten’s touch: A recipe that carries the signature quality of the Barefoot Contessa.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese

2 tablespoons good olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground turkey
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/4 cup red wine (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Equipment

To make Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese, you’ll need the following equipment:

Large pot or Dutch oven: For sautéing the vegetables and simmering the sauce.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Stir and break up the ground turkey as it cooks.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping the vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
Can opener: For opening the can of crushed tomatoes.
Grater: For grating the Parmesan cheese.
Serving spoon: To serve the sauce over pasta or other dishes.

Instructions to Make Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese

Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add garlic and turkey: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate tomatoes and wine: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Season and simmer: Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Finish with herbs: Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, adjusting seasoning to taste.
Serve: Spoon the Turkey Bolognese over pasta, zucchini noodles, or polenta. Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese

Pasta: Traditional spaghetti or fettuccine pairs perfectly with this sauce.
Zucchini noodles: A low-carb alternative that complements the rich sauce.
Polenta: Creamy polenta adds a comforting base for the Bolognese.
Garlic bread: Serve alongside to soak up every bit of the sauce.
Green salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the Bolognese.
Roasted vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a complete meal.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese

Use good-quality turkey: Opt for ground turkey that’s not too lean for better flavor.
Let it simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes helps develop deep flavors.
Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add a burst of freshness to the dish.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as the sauce cooks to ensure perfect flavor.
Consider the wine: Red wine adds richness, but you can substitute it with chicken broth if preferred.
Serve hot: This dish is best enjoyed warm, with freshly grated Parmesan on top.
Make extra: This sauce freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe to have it on hand for quick meals.

Variations of Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese

Spicy Bolognese: Add more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Vegetarian Bolognese: Replace turkey with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Mushroom Bolognese: Add finely chopped mushrooms for added umami flavor.
Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end for a richer sauce.
Pancetta Bolognese: Sauté pancetta with the vegetables for a smokier flavor.
Herb swap: Use thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for a different herbal note.

Storing Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese: Best Practices

Use an airtight container: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Refrigerate promptly: Keep the sauce chilled to maintain its freshness.
Use within 3-4 days: For the best taste and quality, consume within a few days.
Freeze for longer storage: Turkey Bolognese freezes well; store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Label your container: Note the date you made the sauce to track freshness.

Reheating Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese: Best Practices

Stovetop reheating: Reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave reheating: Alternatively, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through.
Add a splash of water: If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen it.
Stir well: Ensure the sauce is evenly heated and well mixed before serving.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 250 kcal
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Sodium: 600mg
Sugar: 8g

How Can I Make Ina Garten Turkey Bolognese Healthier?

To make Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese even healthier, consider these simple adjustments:

Use lean ground turkey: Opt for 93% lean ground turkey or even ground turkey breast to reduce the fat content.
Increase vegetables: Add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to boost fiber and nutrients while keeping the dish filling and satisfying.
Substitute whole wheat pasta: Serve the Bolognese over whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles for added fiber and fewer refined carbs.
Reduce the sodium: Use low-sodium tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth, and season with salt sparingly.
Skip the wine: Replace the red wine with low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on calories and alcohol content.
Use less oil: Cut the amount of olive oil in half, or use a non-stick spray to sauté the vegetables.

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it before serving.

What pasta works best with Turkey Bolognese?

Traditional spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle are excellent choices for pairing with Turkey Bolognese. These pasta types hold the sauce well, allowing each bite to be flavorful and satisfying.

Can I freeze Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese?

Absolutely! Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese freezes very well. Portion the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese gluten-free, simply serve the sauce over gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the tomato paste and broth, are also gluten-free.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Turkey Bolognese is a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite. This healthier version, made with lean ground turkey, doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, zucchini noodles, or polenta, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty, comforting meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, savory taste of homemade Turkey Bolognese!

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