When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to a warm plate of spaghetti topped with a flavorful sauce. Turkey spaghetti, in particular, allows you to enjoy this classic dish with a healthy twist. Ground turkey replaces traditional beef or pork, offering a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this recipe makes for a delightful and satisfying meal that you can enjoy any day of the week.
Why We Love This Turkey Spaghetti Recipe
One of the best aspects of Turkey Spaghetti is its versatility. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for your family or hosting friends for game night, this dish fits the bill. It’s quick to make and can be easily customized to suit your taste. The combination of savory ground turkey, rich tomato sauce, and fresh vegetables creates a mouthwatering experience that delights the senses. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about nutrition. Ground turkey is a lean protein that can help you feel full and satisfied without the extra fat. By incorporating ingredients like carrots, onions, and garlic, you enhance the flavor profile while also boosting the nutritional content. This means you can enjoy a wholesome meal without compromising on taste.
Ingredients for Turkey Spaghetti
To whip up this delicious Turkey Spaghetti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. spaghetti
- 2 (15 oz.) cans tomato sauce
- 1 lb. ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, grated or finely chopped
- 1/4 cup carrot, grated or finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-1/2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1-1/2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
How to Make Turkey Spaghetti
Now that you have the ingredients, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delicious Turkey Spaghetti:
Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside.
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the grated onion and carrot. These vegetables will provide a wonderful sweetness to the sauce. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the top of the veggies, covering the pan to allow them to steam for a few minutes until they become tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Brown the Turkey: Add the minced garlic and ground turkey to the pan. Cook everything together for about 10 minutes, breaking the turkey apart with a spatula until it’s fully cooked. You want to ensure there are no pink bits visible, which indicates the meat is done.
Create the Sauce: Once the turkey is cooked, add the tomato sauce along with all the dried herbs—parsley, basil, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes. This will give the herbs time to meld with the sauce.
Finishing Touches: Just before removing the sauce from the heat, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce, adding a creamy richness.
Combine and Serve: Serve the turkey sauce over the prepared spaghetti, ensuring each plate gets a generous helping. Enjoy your hearty meal with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top, if desired.
How to Serve Turkey Spaghetti
Serving Turkey Spaghetti can be as simple or fancy as you desire. For a cozy family dinner, serve the spaghetti directly from the pot onto each plate. You can garnish the dish with an additional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves for color and flavor.
To elevate the meal, consider pairing it with a crisp side salad drizzled with olive oil and vinegar or some fresh bread for a satisfying crunch. Turkey Spaghetti also goes beautifully with a range of sides, including steamed veggies or a fresh garden salad. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a delightful dining experience.
Lastly, don’t forget to have forks ready so that everyone can dig into this delightful dish. Feel free to add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for an additional kick if you and your guests enjoy some heat.
Expert Tips for Perfect Turkey Spaghetti
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a significant difference in flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh garlic and onions. The natural flavors will elevate your sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: To ensure your spaghetti has the perfect bite, cook it just al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your palate. If you enjoy a particular flavor, add more of that herb. If you prefer milder spaghetti, reduce the amount of black pepper or omit spicy ingredients.
Make It Ahead: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can make a larger batch and store portions in the fridge or freezer to have on hand for quick meals during the week.
Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach into the sauce. They will add extra nutrition and flavor dynamics.
How to Store Turkey Spaghetti
Storing Turkey Spaghetti is easy, making it a great choice for meal prep. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh:
In the Refrigerator: Allow the spaghetti and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. It can stay in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, Turkey Spaghetti can be frozen. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and seal them tightly. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variation of Turkey Spaghetti
The beauty of Turkey Spaghetti lies in its adaptability. Here are a few variations you can try to keep things interesting:
Add More Veggies: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a health boost. Not only will it increase the nutritional value, but it will also add more color and texture to the dish.
Spicy Turkey Spaghetti: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. This will give your dish a nice kick.
Turkey Spaghetti Bake: Transform your spaghetti into a baked dish by layering the cooked spaghetti and sauce in a casserole dish. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly and golden brown.
Herb Variations: Depending on your preference, experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil is a fantastic addition, and you can also try thyme or rosemary for different flavors.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: For a healthier option, swap traditional spaghetti for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary needs.
FAQ about Turkey Spaghetti
What is Turkey Spaghetti?
Turkey Spaghetti is a delicious and healthier version of traditional spaghetti, made with ground turkey and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a nutritious and comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Can I use other types of meat for Turkey Spaghetti?
While ground turkey is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with ground chicken or lean beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
How long does Turkey Spaghetti last in the fridge?
When stored correctly in an airtight container, Turkey Spaghetti will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Turkey Spaghetti?
Yes! Turkey Spaghetti freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.
What side dishes pair well with Turkey Spaghetti?
Some excellent side dishes for Turkey Spaghetti include fresh salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. These will complement the meal perfectly.
Turkey Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Spaghetti
- 2 cans Tomato Sauce (15 oz. each)
- 1 lb. Ground Turkey
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/2 cup Yellow Onion, grated or finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Carrot, grated or finely chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1.5 tsp Dried Parsley
- 1.5 tsp Dried Basil
- 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated optional
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of cooking water, then drain.
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add grated onion and carrot, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, cover, and steam for a few minutes.
- Add minced garlic and ground turkey. Cook for about 10 minutes, breaking apart until fully cooked.
- Stir in tomato sauce and dried herbs. Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Just before serving, mix in grated Parmesan cheese. Serve turkey sauce over spaghetti.
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