This recipe is a lighter twist on classic meat pasta dishes, thanks to the use of ground turkey. It’s packed with protein, easy to customize, and comes together quickly with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or just want something cozy and satisfying, this pasta delivers. The rich tomato sauce and tender turkey make every bite comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground turkey
Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini work great)
Olive oil
Onion
Garlic
Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
Tomato paste (optional, for depth)
Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt
Black pepper
Grated parmesan (optional, for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste (if using), crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to combine.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan and fresh herbs if using.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
Cheesy Bake: After mixing pasta and sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella or cheddar, and broil until bubbly.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of ricotta for a richer texture.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap in your favorite pasta variety to match your dietary needs.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian seasoning or add extra red pepper flakes for heat.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each. This dish also freezes well. Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes all work well in this recipe.
What pasta shape works best?
Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini are ideal, but any pasta you like will work.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, simply skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for garnish.
Is ground turkey healthy?
Ground turkey is a lean protein source, making it a lighter option compared to ground beef.
How do I keep the sauce from being too dry?
If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit of the reserved pasta water or broth to loosen it.
Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Absolutely. Stir in some grated parmesan or a handful of shredded cheese for a creamier sauce.
Can I meal prep this pasta?
Yes, it stores and reheats very well, making it a great meal prep option.
Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Yes, using a quality jarred sauce saves time and still tastes great.
Can I make it spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or use spicy ground turkey to turn up the heat.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Ground Turkey Pasta is a wholesome, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its flavorful sauce, protein-packed meat, and satisfying pasta, it checks all the boxes for a comforting dinner. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to please every time
Ground Turkey Pasta is a comforting and protein-packed dish made with lean ground turkey, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta. It’s an easy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 lb ground turkey
12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or 2 cups marinara sauce
2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste (if using), crushed tomatoes or marinara, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 10 minutes.
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully combined and coated.
Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Make it a cheesy bake by topping with mozzarella and broiling until bubbly.Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences.Stir in a splash of cream or dollop of ricotta for a creamy variation.Store leftovers for meal prep; it reheats and freezes well.
