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Ground Turkey Pasta

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Ground Turkey Pasta is a healthy, quick, and flavorful dinner option that combines lean ground turkey, pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce. This one-pan dish is easy to make, packed with protein, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your favorite shape)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. Brown the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the turkey and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  4. Add the tomatoes and sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, chicken broth (or water), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  5. Combine the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it up. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated.
  6. Serve: Serve the Ground Turkey Pasta in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley, if desired.

Notes

This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little extra cream or broth to keep it creamy.For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream or milk alternatives, and reduce the cheese amount.Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp, ground beef, or tofu for variety.To make it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.

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