Creamy Turkey Bolognese with Cottage Cheese | SaraTasty

Creamy Turkey Bolognese with Cottage Cheese

This creamy turkey bolognese with cottage cheese is a lighter, protein-packed alternative to traditional pasta sauces. It combines the richness of lean turkey with the creaminess of cottage cheese for a healthy, flavorful dish that comes together in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • High in Protein: The combination of lean ground turkey and cottage cheese provides a substantial protein boost to keep you satisfied.
  • Rich & Creamy: You’ll enjoy a smooth, creamy sauce without the heavy cream, thanks to cottage cheese.
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
  • Meal Prep-Friendly: This recipe holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Crushed red pepper (optional)
  • Lean ground turkey
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Cottage cheese
  • Marinara sauce
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large sauté pan.
  2. Add the onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until slightly translucent. Add garlic and crushed red pepper (if using), and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add ground turkey to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  4. While the turkey is cooking, blend the cottage cheese and marinara sauce until smooth.
  5. Pour the blended cottage cheese sauce over the turkey. Stir in Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
  6. Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or roasted spaghetti squash. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Approximately 4 servings
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Meat options: Try substituting ground chicken, lean beef, or bison for the turkey.
  • Cottage cheese: You can adjust the richness of the sauce by using full-fat, low-fat, or fat-free cottage cheese.
  • Spice levels: For a milder dish, omit the crushed red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Yes! This sauce works well with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, spaghetti squash, or even lentil pasta.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This bolognese sauce is great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

3. Is there a substitute for cottage cheese in this recipe?

You could use ricotta cheese for a similar creamy texture.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cheese alternative and omit the Parmesan.

5. What can I serve this bolognese with besides pasta?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a lighter meal.

6. How can I make this sauce spicier?

Add extra crushed red pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.

7. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara works perfectly! Look for one without added sugar or preservatives.

8. What is the best ground turkey to use?

Choose 93/7 ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and moisture.

9. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, this sauce freezes very well! Just store it in an airtight container and reheat when ready to serve.

10. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

While pre-shredded Parmesan can be used, freshly grated Parmesan will enhance the flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This creamy turkey bolognese with cottage cheese is a deliciously healthy option for a weeknight dinner. With its high-protein, creamy texture and versatility in serving, it’s a dish your whole family will love. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for meal prepping. Enjoy!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Turkey Bolognese with Cottage Cheese

Creamy Turkey Bolognese with Cottage Cheese


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: sara
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Creamy Turkey Bolognese with Cottage Cheese is a lighter, protein-packed alternative to traditional pasta sauces. Combining lean turkey with creamy cottage cheese, it delivers a rich, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a healthy, quick weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the Vegetables:

    • Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
    • Add onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent.
    • Add garlic and crushed red pepper (if using), and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
  • Cook the Turkey:

    • Add ground turkey to the pan, season with salt and pepper.
    • Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
  • Prepare the Cottage Cheese Sauce:

    • In a blender, combine cottage cheese and marinara sauce, and blend until smooth.
  • Combine & Simmer:

    • Pour the cottage cheese sauce over the turkey.
    • Stir in Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese.
    • Simmer for 5-10 minutes, until heated through.
  • Serve:

    • Serve over your choice of pasta, zucchini noodles, or roasted spaghetti squash.
    • Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Meat Options: You can substitute ground chicken, lean beef, or bison for the turkey.
  • Cottage Cheese: Adjust the richness of the sauce by using full-fat, low-fat, or fat-free cottage cheese.
  • Spice Levels: Omit crushed red pepper for a milder dish.
  • Meal Prep: This sauce works wonderfully for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.
  • Freezing: The sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing, Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments