Name: Rotini Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoon olive oil, divided; 1 lb lean ground turkey or ground beef; 1/2 medium white onion, minced; 1 large carrot, minced; 1 stalk celery, minced; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 28 oz can San Marzano tomatoes (whole, peeled); 2 tablespoon tomato paste; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste; 1/2 cup chicken broth (can substitute with red wine); 1 teaspoon oregano; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 2 tsp dried); 16 oz box rotini pasta (or other pasta of choice)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 1 review

If you have been searching for a comforting yet vibrant pasta dish to brighten up your dinner table, this Rotini Bolognese Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with wholesome ingredients like lean ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes, this dish balances heartiness and freshness beautifully. The spiral shape of rotini plays a big role too, capturing every bit of the luscious Bolognese sauce in each bite, making every forkful a delightful explosion of flavor. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a large white bowl with pink ground turkey on the left. To its right, a white bowl holds orange-yellow pasta noodles. Near the center, a bright yellow can of San Marzano peeled tomatoes sits slightly tilted. Below the bowl of ground turkey, a white bowl has three sections filled with chopped white onion, green celery, and orange carrots. Next to it, a small wooden bowl contains green dried oregano. Nearby, a small white pitcher holds golden chicken broth. A wedge of pale yellow parmesan cheese with a textured rind is placed near the top right. Three small white bowls hold golden olive oil, coarse white salt in a brown round dish, and bright red tomato paste. Fresh green basil leaves are arranged on the bottom right. All items are spaced evenly with clear labels showing their names. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Rotini Bolognese Recipe comes from intentionally simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one adds its own character—whether it’s the sweetness of carrots, the earthy aroma of fresh basil, or the satisfying texture of rotini pasta. Every ingredient plays a vital role in making this dish truly special.

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds a smooth, fruity undertone.
1 lb lean ground turkey or ground beef: The hearty protein that forms the robust base of your Bolognese sauce.
1/2 medium white onion, minced: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the sauce.
1 large carrot, minced: Brings natural sweetness and a subtle crunch.
1 stalk celery, minced: Offers a fresh, slightly bitter balance to the sweetness of the carrot and onion.
1 tablespoon minced garlic: Infuses the sauce with a warm, aromatic layer of flavor.
28 oz can San Marzano tomatoes (whole, peeled): Known for their perfect balance of flavor and acidity, these tomatoes create a rich and vibrant sauce.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds concentrated tomato flavor and a thicker texture to the sauce.
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste: Enhances all the flavors and balances acidity.
1/2 cup chicken broth (or red wine): Makes the sauce more complex and adds moisture for a luscious consistency.
1 teaspoon oregano: Brings a pleasant herbal note that complements the tomato base.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried): Adds freshness and a beautiful green burst of color right before serving.
16 oz box of rotini pasta (or another pasta of your choice): The ideal shape to catch every bit of sauce, making each bite flavorful.

How to Make Rotini Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies for Flavor

Start by finely mincing the carrots, onion, and celery. These vegetables aren’t just background players; their finely chopped texture will melt into the sauce, adding a subtle sweetness and gentle crunch that balances the richness of the meat. If chopping isn’t your favorite task, a food processor can save you time and ensure uniform pieces.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add your lean ground turkey or beef, breaking it up with a spatula into bite-sized crumbles as it cooks. This step is where the Bolognese sauce builds its meaty goodness. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the meat is no longer pink and is fully cooked through. Be sure to drain any excess liquid; you want the meat caramelized, not boiled.

Step 3: Sauté Your Aromatics

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pan along with the minced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Stir everything together and let the veggies soften for 2 to 3 minutes. This aromatic base is essential for layering flavors and giving the Bolognese that classic, comforting taste.

Step 4: Blend and Simmer the Sauce

While the veggies are softening, pour the whole peeled San Marzano tomatoes and tomato paste into a blender, season with salt, and blend until smooth. Pour this vibrant tomato mixture into your pan with the sautéed aromatics and meat. Add the chicken broth (or red wine for a richer touch), stir, and reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for 25 to 40 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning. This slow simmering is what deepens the flavors and transforms simple ingredients into a rich, velvety Bolognese.

Step 5: Cook Your Rotini Pasta

While your sauce is nearing completion, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Adding plenty of salt to the boiling water is key—it seasons the pasta from the inside out and enhances the overall dish. Once perfectly al dente, drain the pasta and prepare for the grand assembly.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the oregano and fresh chopped basil. Fresh herbs provide a burst of brightness and aroma that perfectly balances the hearty, rich sauce. This final touch elevates the Rotini Bolognese Recipe to restaurant-quality deliciousness right in your kitchen.

How to Serve Rotini Bolognese Recipe

A close-up top view of a grey pan filled mostly with cooked ground meat that is light brown and crumbly in texture. On top of the meat, there are three distinct small piles of chopped vegetables: bright orange carrots, light green celery, and white onions with some small pieces of orange carrot mixed in. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To truly make the dish shine, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and add a few more basil leaves for color and added freshness. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving can also make the flavors pop even more. These simple garnishes add texture, richness, and visual appeal that turn an everyday meal into a special occasion.

Side Dishes

Rotini Bolognese is wonderfully hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread adds balance. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli also make a colorful, nutritious addition that complements the dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Rotini Bolognese Recipe in individual ramekins, topped with melted mozzarella and broiled until golden and bubbly. Or layer the pasta and sauce in a casserole dish, cover with cheese, and bake for a comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for leftovers. Presentation can make any meal more exciting, so don’t hesitate to get a little creative and tailor the dish to your style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Rotini Bolognese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta and sauce together to allow the flavors to meld, but be aware the pasta may soak up more sauce and become softer. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled sauce and pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Consider freezing the sauce separately from the pasta if you prefer to reheat them at different times or want to maintain the pasta’s texture better.

Reheating

When reheating, warm your Rotini Bolognese on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. This will help prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave reheating works too, but be sure to cover your dish to retain moisture and heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the Rotini Bolognese Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground beef, pork, or even a combination can work wonderfully. For a lighter option, ground turkey is perfect as used in this recipe.

What can I substitute for San Marzano tomatoes if I can’t find them?

You can use any good quality canned whole peeled tomatoes. San Marzano tomatoes are preferred for their sweetness and low acidity, but good canned plum tomatoes make a fine substitute.

Can I make Rotini Bolognese Recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the meat for lentils, finely chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat to keep the hearty texture while making it vegetarian. You might want to add a splash of soy sauce or nutritional yeast for a savory umami boost.

How long does it take to make this Rotini Bolognese Recipe?

The total time is about 45 minutes including prep and simmering, making it a great midweek dinner option that feels like you spent hours on it.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Definitely! It freezes well for up to three months, making it ideal for batch cooking and meal prep.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly rewarding about creating a beautiful, flavorful pasta dish like this Rotini Bolognese Recipe in your own kitchen. It brings comfort, satisfaction, and joy all in one bowl. Don’t hesitate to dive into this recipe and share it with the people you love—each bite is a little celebration of good food and great company.