Name: One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey (93% lean preferred); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 12 oz spaghetti noodles, broken in half; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving); Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver when you need dinner on the table quickly. It’s healthier than traditional spaghetti thanks to lean ground turkey and uses everyday pantry staples. Best of all, everything cooks in one pot—pasta included—making cleanup a breeze. The flavors are rich and comforting, with perfectly cooked noodles and a hearty meat sauce that clings to every strand.

Ingredients

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

Ground turkey
Olive oil
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
Tomato paste
Chicken or vegetable broth
Dried Italian seasoning
Dried basil
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper
Spaghetti noodles, broken in half
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce), and seasonings.
Pour in broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the broken spaghetti noodles, making sure they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the noodles are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, remove from heat.
Let sit for a few minutes to thicken, then top with Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar at the end for a cheesy finish.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti noodles.
Add Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the onions.
Spicier Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Different Protein: Substitute ground chicken or lean beef if desired.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, stirring halfway through.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?

Yes, but keep an eye on cooking time as whole wheat pasta may take longer to become tender.

Will the pasta overcook in the pot?

As long as you stir occasionally and watch the timing, the pasta should cook perfectly.

Can I use jarred pasta sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can substitute with your favorite marinara or pasta sauce for convenience.

Is ground turkey dry compared to beef?

Ground turkey is leaner, but when cooked properly with sauces, it remains moist and flavorful.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the turkey and add extra veggies or plant-based crumbles.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.

How can I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Stir the pasta frequently during the first few minutes of cooking to prevent sticking.

What if my sauce gets too thick?

Add a bit more broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Shorter pastas like penne or rotini can work well too.

What type of ground turkey is best?

Lean (93% lean) ground turkey is ideal for flavor and texture without being too dry.

Conclusion

One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti is the ideal quick-fix dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With simple ingredients, minimal cleanup, and a hearty, comforting taste, this dish is bound to become a regular in your weeknight rotation. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal prepping for the week, this satisfying spaghetti checks all the boxes.