If you’re looking for a healthier and low fat alternative to red meat bolognese, you should try this healthy turkey bolognese recipe which is just as comforting.
This recipe is also ideal for batch cooking and meal prep because it stores and reheats perfectly well which you can enjoy during the week.
What Is Turkey Bolognese?
Turkey bolognese is a great way to reduce the fat content and keep this classic recipe healthier which is also ideal for meal prep and following a healthy meal plan.
By swapping red meat for lean ground turkey helps keep this recipe macro-friendly that doesn’t compromise on taste or flavor which is a huge bonus if you’re looking to eat healthy meals that you will find comforting.
Although lean turkey mince has a reputation for being dry and bland, this recipe is far from that, and you might be surprised how tender the meat tastes which has been tried and tested multiple times.
Turkey Mince Bolognese
Ingredients
- 500 g (1.1 lb) turkey thigh mince
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
- 1 carrots peeled and finely chopped
- 2 celery stalk finely chopped
- 1 red chili finely chopped
- 600 g (4.03 cups) passata
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika powder optional
- beef stock
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley finely chopped
- 1 chicken stock cube
- 1/2 tsp (0.5 tsp) sugar
- 1/2 tsp (0.5 tsp) salt
- 1/2 tsp (0.5 tsp) black pepper
Nutrition
Data source: USDA
How To Make Turkey Bolognese (Photo Guide)
You can make turkey bolognese in a saucepan, instant pot or slow cooker. If you want to make this on a weeknight, it can be done within 45 minutes.
Add olive oil, chopped onions, carrots and celery to the saucepan.
Add the ground turkey and break it apart to cook in high heat.
Add the herbs and spices.
Add the tomato passata. Cover and allow it cook to perfection.
Other ways you can cook this recipe:
- Insant pot / slow cooker – this method is better if you have an instant pot because you can slow cook this recipe to perfection.
Meal Prep FAQ
This is a fantastic recipe for meal prep because it freezes well, reheats well and lasts in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Just like the red lentil bolognese and spicy bolognese, I often batch cook these meals for the week-ahead which goes well with the pasta of your choice.
I prefer this recipe because it’s very comforting but also macro-friendly which is great for my meal plan to maintain a healthy balanced weight.
Recipe Questions
Is Turkey Mince Healthy?
Turkey mince is lower in fat which is a healthier alternative to beef, pork and lamb mince. It’s also high in protein which also contains zinc and vitamin B12. Turkey breast mince is very lean, while turkey thigh mince is also lean but slightly higher in fat in comparison.
How To Freeze Turkey Bolognese?
You can freeze turkey bolognese for 3 months which is ideal for batch cooking and meal prep because the leftovers tastes just as good. Ensure you use an air-tight meal prep container and label the dates to ensure you use it within 3 months.
Can You Reheat Turkey Bolognese?
Yes, you can reheat turkey bolognese in the microwave or stove top. It reheats superbly well which is why this bolognese recipe is ideal for batch cooking and meal prep because you can take it to work or save time in the evenings. It takes around 3-4 minutes to reheat in the microwave or 8-9 minutes to reheat on the stove top. However, ensure it’s piping hot throughout.
How Long Will Turkey Bolognese Last In The Fridge?
Turkey bolognese will last 3-4 days in the fridge providing you use an air-tight container and that the ingredients are fresh. As a result, it’s ideal to prepare this recipe for a work lunch or healthy quick weeknight dinner.
Turkey Bolognese Calories
This turkey bolognese recipe is around 273 kcal per serving which doesn’t include the spaghetti.
It’s high in protein, low-carb and low in calories which means when you add your choice of pasta, it’s turns into a well-balanced meal which can keep you full and is this too high in calories.
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