Every time my mom prepared a batch of this dish, it disappeared within a few days.

This slow cooker savory ground turkey bolognese is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners. Originating from Italy, bolognese is traditionally a meat-based sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta. By using ground turkey, this version is a bit lighter but still packed with flavor. It's an ideal dish for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, home-cooked meal. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully over time.

This bolognese sauce is wonderfully versatile and pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Serve it over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a classic meal. A side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables or a creamy polenta.

Servings: 6

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1/4 cup tomato paste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

Transfer the turkey and vegetable mixture to the slow cooker.

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley.

For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce before cooking. If you have picky eaters, consider blending the vegetables into the tomato sauce for a smoother texture. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.