Description
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.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
