Go Back

Turkey Bolognese Lasagna Toss

This healthy turkey bolognese recipe has just a bit of balsamic vinegar added in to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. The sauce freezes well and can be used in a variety of different ways.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Keyword bolognese, lasagna, pasta

Ingredients

  • 1 package of lasagna noodles
  • Kosher salt
  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 3 cloves garlic pressed or minced
  • 1 cup small dice carrots
  • 1 cup small dice onion
  • 1 cup small dice celery
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 2 28- ounce cans crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • For the ricotta cheese topping
  • 1 8- ounce container ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • ¼ cup parsley chopped
  • ¼ cup basil leaves chopped
  • generous pinch of kosher salt

Instructions

  • In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the turkey and cook, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula as it browns. Cook for about 4-5 minutes or until it's no longer pink.
  • Add the garlic, carrots, onion, and celery and cook until the vegetables begin to soften, another 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the milk and cook until evaporated, about 3-4 minutes, then do the same with the wine.
  • Add the tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, bay leaves, and season with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a lively simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 hours or until the sauce is rich and thick. Add water to the sauce to loosen it as it cooks if necessary.
  • For the ricotta cheese topping, mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • When ready to serve, bring a large stockpot of water to a boil over high heat, salt it generously, and cook the lasagna noodles until just al dente. Drain and toss with the sauce.
  • Serve with dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture and garnish with more Parmesan and fresh herbs or parsley if desired.