Ground Turkey Pasta is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a hearty, easy-to-make dish that the whole family will love—great for both casual dinners and cozy gatherings.
Why We Love This Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe
There’s something inherently comforting about pasta dishes. Ground turkey pasta combines the warmth of traditional pasta with the health-conscious benefits of turkey. Ground turkey is lower in fat compared to other meat options, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
This recipe is adaptable to any palate. Whether you prefer a creamy or slightly tangy flavor, you can customize it to your liking. The combination of fresh ingredients and rich flavors means you’ll be savoring every bite. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, making clean-up a breeze!
Creating this meal also allows you to play with various ingredients. If you have leftover veggies in your fridge, throw them in! You can easily elevate your ground turkey pasta by adding extra spices or herbs according to your taste preference.
Ingredients about Ground Turkey Pasta
To get started on your own mouthwatering ground turkey pasta, gather the following ingredients:
- 12 oz. medium shell pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 large red bell pepper, diced small
- 4 oz. white mushrooms, thinly sliced or diced small
- 1/2 large white onion, diced
- 1 tsp. salt (taste and add more as desired)
- 1/2 tsp. pepper
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How to Make Ground Turkey Pasta Directions
Excellent ground turkey pasta starts with a few simple steps. Follow these directions to create your delicious dish:
Begin by boiling a pot of water. Add a generous pinch of salt and cook the medium shell pasta according to the package instructions, typically for about 8 to 10 minutes. When al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a Dutch oven or wide stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground turkey. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the turkey is fully browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the pan to keep your dish light. Once cooked, set the turkey aside.
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Sauté the minced garlic, diced red bell peppers, thinly sliced mushrooms, and diced onions. Season the vegetables with a bit of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Enjoy the wonderful aromas as you cook for about 5 minutes until everything is tender.
Slowly whisk in the all-purpose flour, ensuring it combines well with the sautéed vegetables. This will help thicken your sauce.
Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Let this simmer for a few moments, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once simmering, add the cooked ground turkey back into the pot, mixing it well into the sauce.
Next, stir in the cooked medium shell pasta, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, clinging beautifully to the pasta and turkey.
If desired, garnish with fresh basil and more Parmesan cheese before serving.
This delightful dish can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep!
How to Serve Ground Turkey Pasta
Serving ground turkey pasta is as simple as it gets. This dish can stand alone as a delightful centerpiece of any meal but can also be paired with a side salad or garlic bread for an extra touch.
You might want to serve it hot, straight from the stove, so the creamy sauce is still warm and luscious. Place a generous portion of pasta on a plate and add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top for an enhanced visual appeal and flavor.
For an extra touch of freshness, a few leaves of basil or a sprinkle of chopped parsley can elevate the dish, adding color and a burst of flavor. Feel free to set out additional Parmesan cheese on the side for anyone who loves a bit more cheesiness.
Expert Tips: Ground Turkey Pasta
- Choose Lean Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey to help keep the dish light and healthy while still providing a hearty flavor.
- Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to include any vegetables you have on hand. Spinach, zucchini, or even frozen peas can add color and nutrition.
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking to cut down on calories or fat, you can use half-and-half, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free cream alternative as a substitute for heavy cream.
- Extra Seasoning: If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the dish beautifully.
- Storage: Always ensure your dish cools down before refrigerating to maintain texture and flavor.
How to Store Ground Turkey Pasta
If you find yourself with leftovers—or if you’re just doing some meal prep—storing ground turkey pasta is a straightforward task.
For optimal freshness, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent the buildup of condensation that can lead to sogginess. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it. For this, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re craving a taste, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pot or microwave until warm.
Variation of Ground Turkey Pasta
Ground turkey pasta is incredibly versatile, offering ample room for creativity. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Vegetable Medley: Incorporate your favorite seasonal vegetables like kale, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add in some diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit more heat.
- Cheesy Spin: Mix in different types of cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar for an extra creamy and cheesy flavor.
- Gluten-Free Options: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
- One-Pot Wonder: For an even easier cleanup, cook the pasta right in the sauce. Start with adding the pasta and broth together, then simmer until the pasta is cooked through.
FAQ: Ground Turkey Pasta
What is ground turkey pasta?
Ground turkey pasta is a hearty and satisfying dish consisting of cooked pasta, seasoned ground turkey, and a creamy sauce made from ingredients like broth, tomato sauce, and cream. It’s a simple yet delicious meal idea.
How long does it take to make ground turkey pasta?
This dish typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based proteins if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
How do I make ground turkey pasta healthier?
You can make it healthier by using whole grain or vegetable-based pasta, a lower-fat cream alternative, and including more vegetables to enhance the fiber content.
Ground Turkey Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz medium shell pasta (or pasta of choice)
Meat
- 1 lb ground turkey Choose lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
Vegetables
- 2 Tbsp olive oil Divided into two tablespoons for cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 large red bell pepper, diced small
- 4 oz white mushrooms, thinly sliced or diced small
- 1/2 large white onion, diced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tsp salt Taste and add more as desired.
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour Use to thicken the sauce.
- 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with light alternatives.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated Adjust to taste.
Garnish
- Fresh basil Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by boiling a pot of water with a pinch of salt and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pot. Sauté garlic, red bell pepper, mushrooms, and onion for about 5 minutes until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cooking
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour with the sautéed vegetables to thicken the sauce.
- Pour in beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine, and let simmer.
- Add cooked ground turkey back to the pot and mix.
- Stir in pasta, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan before serving.