Slow Cooker Ground Turkey Bolognese Recipe

Slow Cooker Ground Turkey Bolognese is a lighter take on the classic Italian meat sauce. Made with ground turkey, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic vegetables, this hearty sauce is perfect for serving over pasta, zoodles, or spaghetti squash. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to develop into a rich, comforting meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Cooking Tips & Notes
• Variations
• FAQs
• Serving Suggestions
• Conclusion

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey

1. In a skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Transfer the browned turkey to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Sauce Ingredients

1. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

1. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Add Creaminess (Optional)

1. If desired, stir in the whole milk or heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamier sauce.

Step 5: Serve

1. Stir the sauce before serving. Ladle over cooked pasta, zoodles, or spaghetti squash.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Vegetables: Make sure to finely chop the carrots and celery so they blend well into the sauce.
• Ground Turkey: You can use ground chicken if you prefer, or a combination of ground turkey and ground beef for extra flavor.
• Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Variations

• Spicy Bolognese: Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
• Mushroom Bolognese: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for extra umami flavor.
• Vegetable-Packed: Add chopped zucchini or bell pepper to make the sauce even heartier with more veggies.
• Herb Variation: Substitute the dried basil and oregano with Italian seasoning for a slightly different flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Bolognese?

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.

3. Can I Freeze Turkey Bolognese?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need about 4-5 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes to replace the canned ones. Keep in mind that the flavor and consistency may vary.

Serving Suggestions

• Pasta: Serve over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne.
• Zoodles: For a low-carb option, serve the Bolognese over zucchini noodles (zoodles).
• Spaghetti Squash: Serve over roasted spaghetti squash for a gluten-free and low-carb meal.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Slow Cooker Ground Turkey Bolognese is a delicious, lighter version of the classic Italian meat sauce. With tender vegetables, rich tomato flavor, and the convenience of a slow cooker, this recipe is perfect for a comforting meal any night of the week. Serve it over pasta, zoodles, or spaghetti squash for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of Bolognese made easy!