This slow cooker turkey bolognese sauce is a delicious and easy slow cooker dinner recipe perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love this hearty, flavorful sauce that practically makes itself.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Turkey: Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option. You can also use a blend of dark and white meat.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes or tomato puree work well if you prefer a different texture.
- Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery add depth of flavor. Feel free to add bell peppers or zucchini.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth are both great choices. Water can be used in a pinch.
- Herbs: Dried basil, oregano, and thyme are essential. Use fresh herbs if you have them, adjusting the quantity.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (low), 2-3 hours (high)
- Servings: 8
- Tools Needed: Large slow cooker, large skillet
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Turkey
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the turkey. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds flavor for your slow cooker dinner recipe.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker
Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and garlic powder. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The sauce is ready when the flavors have melded and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your delicious slow cooker turkey bolognese sauce over your favorite pasta, polenta, or even spiralized vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Creamy Bolognese: Stir in a splash of milk or a spoonful of cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Extra Veggies: Include finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers with the other vegetables.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with dried marjoram or a bay leaf for different aromatic notes.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover slow cooker turkey bolognese sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based ground substitute.
Do I have to brown the turkey first?
Browning the turkey adds a deeper flavor, but you can skip this step if you’re very short on time.
What kind of pasta is best with bolognese?
Hearty pasta shapes like tagliatelle, pappardelle, or rigatoni are excellent choices for holding the rich sauce.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.