Gigi’s Bolognese

Homemade Bolognese Pasta with a Twist — A Family Favorite!

Looking for a creamy, comforting pasta dish with soul and a little sass? Gigi’s Bolognese is a one-of-a-kind, family-inspired meat sauce that blends savory ground turkey, smoked sausage, tender veggies, and a homemade Alfredo-marinara hybrid that’s pure love in a bowl. This is the meal that had everyone coming back for seconds—including my wife. Straight from my mom's kitchen to yours!

INGREDIENTS

Meat:

• 3 lbs ground turkey

• 1 pack Hillshire Farm beef smoked sausage, sliced

Pasta:

• 1 lb bow tie pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)

Sauce:

• 1 jar marinara sauce (any kind you prefer)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 packet Knorr Parma Rosa sauce mix (optional for added flavor)

• 1 cup milk (approximate, adjust for consistency)

• 1 block Parmesan cheese (for grating)

Veggies & Aromatics:

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1½ small onions, chopped

• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ pack pre-sliced white mushrooms

• Olive oil (for sautéing)

Seasonings:

• 2 packets taco seasoning (for turkey)

• Garlic salt (to taste)

• Adobo (to taste)

• Lawry’s seasoning salt (to taste)

• Italian seasoning

• Dried oregano

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Season & Mix the Meat:
   In a large bowl, mix the ground turkey with two packets of taco seasoning—adding one packet at a time and mixing thoroughly with clean hands. Set aside.

2. Cook the Turkey:
   In a large pan sprayed with olive oil, sauté the seasoned turkey until browned and fully cooked. Break it up as it cooks for even texture.

3. Add the Sausage:
   Slice smoked sausage and mix it into the cooked turkey. Let it cook down together so the flavors combine.

4. Sauté Veggies:
   In a separate pan, melt butter and olive oil. Add chopped bell pepper, onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Season with Italian seasoning and oregano. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

5. Boil the Pasta:
   Boil bow tie pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

6. Make the Sauce:
   In a saucepan, combine marinara, heavy cream, butter, and milk over medium heat. Stir in the optional Knorr Parma Rosa mix for extra richness. Simmer until creamy.

7. Combine It All:
   Add the sautéed veggies to the turkey and sausage mixture. Pour in the sauce and stir well. Then fold in the pasta and mix until everything is fully coated.

8. Top & Serve:
   Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over each serving. Serve hot and enjoy!

PRO TIPS

• Can’t find Parma Rosa mix? Mix equal parts marinara and homemade Alfredo.

• Add extra milk or cream when reheating leftovers to bring back the sauciness.

• Use your favorite pasta shape—penne, rigatoni, or even egg noodles all work great.

ESTIMATED MACROS FOR ENTIRE RECIPE

(approximate based on ingredient brands)

• Calories: ~4,200

• Protein: ~240g

• Carbs: ~280g

• Fat: ~200g

Estimated Yield: 8 servings
Per Serving:

• Calories: ~525 kcal

• Protein: ~30g

• Carbs: ~35g

• Fat: ~25g

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Add a side salad with balsamic vinaigrette

• Serve with garlic bread or roasted veggies

• Pair with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon