Easy Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe

Ground turkey pasta is a comforting, easy-to-make, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe will win hearts with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Combining tender ground turkey with a rich, savory tomato sauce and your favorite pasta, this dish is a wholesome and crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Healthier Protein Option: Ground turkey is leaner than beef, making this a lighter but still protein-packed meal.
2. Easy to Make: The recipe comes together in under an hour with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.
3. Customizable: You can add vegetables, swap out the pasta type, or adjust the seasonings to fit your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water, then add the pasta.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

1. Heat the Olive Oil:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add the Garlic:
   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Brown the Turkey:
   Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, or until no longer pink.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

1. Incorporate the Tomatoes:
   Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Mix well to combine.
2. Season the Sauce:
   Add dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer:
   Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it.

Step 4: Enhance the Flavor

1. Optional Add-Ins:
   If desired, stir in heavy cream for a richer sauce or baby spinach for extra nutrition. Allow the spinach to wilt into the sauce.
2. Adjust Consistency:
   Add more pasta water if needed to reach your preferred sauce consistency.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
2. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.

Serving Suggestions

1. Garnish:
   Sprinkle fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and presentation.
2. Pairing:
   Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
3. Wine Pairing:
   A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Chianti, complements the tomato-based sauce beautifully.

Variations

1. Veggie-Packed Turkey Pasta:

• Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrients and texture.

2. Spicy Turkey Pasta:

• Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

3. Creamy Turkey Pasta:

• Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or ¼ cup cream cheese for a luscious, creamy sauce.

4. Gluten-Free Option:

• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   Fresh garlic, onion, and high-quality tomatoes make a big difference in the flavor of the sauce.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta:
   Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it holds its texture when mixed with the sauce.
3. Reserve Pasta Water:
   The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky texture.
4. Simmer for Flavor:
   Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances the flavors and ensures a cohesive dish.

Conclusion

This ground turkey pasta recipe is the perfect blend of convenience, flavor, and versatility. With its hearty tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s sure to become a go-to meal for busy weeknights and cozy family dinners. Experiment with variations, add your favorite ingredients, and make it your own. No matter how you customize it, this dish guarantees satisfaction in every bite!

Yield: 4

Easy Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe

Print

Ground turkey pasta is a comforting, easy-to-make, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe will win hearts with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Combining tender ground turkey with a rich, savory tomato sauce and your favorite pasta, this dish is a wholesome and crowd-pleasing favorite.

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Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
   
2. Cook the Ground Turkey:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
   Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
   Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
   
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.
   Add Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
   Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and ground turkey.
   Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
   
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
   Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to combine.
   For a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top and let it melt for 2-3 minutes before serving.
   
6. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

• Make It Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Additions: Mix in chopped spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a creamy sauce.