Name: Ground Turkey Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487145H47M49S
Total time: PT-487145H47M49S
Yield: undefined
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce); 1/4 cup tomato paste (optional, for a thicker sauce); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water, for a lighter sauce); 8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your preferred type); Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ground Turkey Pasta is a light yet satisfying meal that’s full of flavor without being heavy. It combines lean ground turkey, hearty pasta, and a savory tomato-based sauce, making it the perfect weeknight dinner. The lean turkey provides a healthier alternative to traditional ground beef, while the tomatoes, garlic, and spices create a comforting, aromatic sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. This dish is versatile, quick to prepare, and can easily be customized to suit your tastes with added veggies, seasonings, or cheese. It’s an easy and delicious way to enjoy a comforting pasta dish with less fat!

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce)
1/4 cup tomato paste (optional, for a thicker sauce)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth (or water, for a lighter sauce)
8 oz pasta (penne, spaghetti, or your preferred type)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the ground turkey:
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
Make the sauce:
- Once the turkey is browned, add the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste (if using), and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
Combine the pasta and sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey sauce and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Serve:
- Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor, if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: For extra nutrition, add chopped zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat or mix in diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: Swap the regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to make the dish healthier or suitable for specific dietary preferences.
Cheese lover’s version: Stir in some mozzarella or ricotta cheese with the pasta and sauce for a cheesy, creamy texture.

Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works just as well in this recipe. You can use either dark or white meat, but dark meat will add more flavor and moisture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the turkey sauce and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the sauce when you’re ready to serve and combine it with freshly cooked pasta.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add heat, incorporate some diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce into the sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked ground turkey pasta. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Ground Turkey Pasta is a versatile, easy, and flavorful dish that brings together all the elements of a comforting Italian meal with a lighter, healthier twist. Packed with lean turkey, fresh tomatoes, and herbs, it’s a dish you can feel good about enjoying. Whether you’re feeding a family or making a meal for yourself, this recipe is quick, satisfying, and can be customized with your favorite add-ins. Enjoy it with a side salad or some garlic bread for the ultimate meal!