Ground Turkey Pasta
Ground Turkey Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a healthy twist. This hearty dish features lean, protein-rich ground turkey paired with tender pasta and a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner, it’s versatile, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (optional)
- Tongs or pasta fork
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 12 oz pasta spaghetti, penne, or your choice
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 –2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the tomato sauce and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey and sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Transfer pasta to a serving dish or individual plates. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
Variations: Add chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone to the sauce.
Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Dietary Adaptations: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version, or substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
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Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone to the sauce.
Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Dietary Adaptations: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version, or substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
This format is optimized for WP Recipe Card and SEO-friendly for your food blog. Let me know if you'd like additional tweaks!