Turkey Bolognese Greek-Style

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Leaner and lighter than traditional beef bolognese.
• Infused with Greek-inspired flavors like oregano, cinnamon, and feta.
• Perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
• High in protein and full of Mediterranean goodness.
• Delicious served with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

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

• Lean ground turkey
• Olive oil
• Yellow onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrot (finely diced)
• Crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• Tomato paste
• Dry white wine (optional)
• Dried oregano
• Ground cinnamon (a pinch for Greek flavor)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Kalamata olives (chopped)
• Crumbled feta cheese (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

Directions

1. Sauté the aromatics. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and carrot, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the turkey. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the seasonings. Stir in oregano, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
4. Deglaze the pan. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
5. Add tomatoes. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Finish the dish. Stir in chopped Kalamata olives and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve. Spoon the sauce over cooked pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice. Top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–5 people
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Creamy version: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream before serving.
• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrients.
• Low-carb option: Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Spicy version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
• Cheese swap: Replace feta with crumbled goat cheese for a milder flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. You can also freeze the sauce (without pasta) for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

What makes this “Greek-style”?

The combination of oregano, cinnamon, olives, and feta gives it that distinct Mediterranean flavor profile.

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely. Ground chicken works well and gives a similar light texture.

What pasta works best with this sauce?

Whole wheat spaghetti, penne, or even orzo pairs beautifully with this sauce.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, you can replace it with chicken broth or water for a non-alcoholic version.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just serve it with gluten-free pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles.

How do I make it dairy-free?

Simply skip the feta or use a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant are great additions.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, or add an extra spoonful of tomato paste.

What can I serve with Greek-Style Turkey Bolognese?

A Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread make excellent sides.

Conclusion

Turkey Bolognese Greek-Style is a flavorful, wholesome twist on a traditional favorite. With its lean protein, rich tomato base, and Mediterranean flair from feta and olives, it’s a comforting yet refreshing meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Simple, nourishing, and bursting with bright flavors, this dish brings a taste of Greece right to your kitchen.

Turkey Bolognese Greek-Style

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Turkey Bolognese Greek-Style is a Mediterranean-inspired version of the classic Italian sauce. Made with lean ground turkey, tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon, and finished with feta and olives, this hearty yet healthy meal brings bright, savory Greek flavors to your table.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4–5 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Greek
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground turkey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small carrot, finely diced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (for serving)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and carrot, cooking for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add ground turkey and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned and cooked through.
4. Mix in oregano, cinnamon, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
5. Deglaze the pan with white wine (if using) and simmer for 1–2 minutes until the liquid reduces.
6. Add crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
7. Stir in chopped Kalamata olives and adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice. Top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley.

Notes

• For a creamy version, stir in Greek yogurt or cream before serving.
• To thicken the sauce, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
• Make it dairy-free by skipping the feta or using a plant-based alternative.
• This sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 75mg