High Protein Classic Pasta Bolognese

Elevate your pasta night with this High Protein Classic Pasta Bolognese, a wholesome twist on the beloved Italian dish. Packed with lean ground turkey and pork, this hearty recipe offers a protein boost without compromising on rich, satisfying flavor. A medley of aromatic vegetables, including carrots, celery, and onion, forms the base of the slow-simmered sauce, while a touch of red wine and fresh herbs adds depth and authenticity. Served over nutrient-rich whole wheat pasta and garnished with Parmesan cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence. Ideal for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this high-protein Bolognese is a true comfort food classic with a healthy spin.

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 16 oz whole wheat pasta
• 12 oz lean ground turkey
• 12 oz ground pork
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the ground turkey and ground pork to the pot. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 6

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, and red wine (if using) to the meat mixture. Mix well.

Step 7

Add the dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Step 8

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 10

Remove the bay leaf and discard.

Step 11

Toss the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce until well combined.

Step 12

Serve the pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2956.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3014.3

Total Fat 141.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 45.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 589.2mg	0%
Sodium 4827.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 213.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 44.8g	0%
Total Sugars 57.6g
Protein 212.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1077.8mg	0%
Iron 24.0mg	0%
Potassium 5927.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.7%

Protein: 28.6%

Carbs: 28.7%