Description
At its core, this Hidden Veggie Turkey Bolognese is a modern, health-conscious twist on the traditional Italian meat sauce. A standard Bolognese, or ragù alla bolognese, typically relies on a base of onion, celery, and carrot (known as soffritto) sautéed with ground meat and tomato. Our version takes that concept and amplifies the vegetable content significantly.
Ingredients
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
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1 carrot, finely grated
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1 zucchini, finely grated
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1 cup mushrooms, very finely chopped (or pulsed in a food processor)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 can (14–15 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
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½ cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for thinning)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil (or Italian seasoning)
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½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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¼ cup milk or cream (optional, for richness)
To serve:
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Cooked pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
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Grated Parmesan or Pecorino
Instructions
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Sauté aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds. -
Brown the turkey
Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink (about 5–6 minutes). -
Add hidden veggies
Stir in grated carrot, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften and moisture cooks off. -
Build the sauce
Add tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth (if using), oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. -
Simmer
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Finish
Stir in milk or cream if using. Adjust seasoning to taste. -
Serve
Toss with pasta or spoon over noodles. Finish with grated cheese.
Notes
This Hidden Veggie Turkey Bolognese is a family-friendly, nutrient-packed twist on a classic favorite. Finely chopped vegetables melt into the sauce, adding natural sweetness and extra goodness without overpowering the flavor. It’s perfect for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and a great way to sneak more veggies into everyday dinners—especially for picky eaters.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmered
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
Keywords: Vegetable Loaded Turkey Pasta Sauce, Healthy Turkey Ragù, Sneaky Veggie Spaghetti Sauce, Lean Turkey Bolognese with Vegetables