ground turkey and pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ground turkey and pasta recipe

I have been making this ground turkey and pasta recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a staple in many Italian households, and I’ve adapted it to suit our tastes.

The combination of flavors and textures is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I love that it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.

My kids adore the taste, and they’re always eager to help me prepare the ingredients. This recipe is a great way to get everyone involved in cooking, and it’s also an excellent way to teach them about portion control and meal planning.

The best part? It’s incredibly healthy, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the turkey, pasta, and veggies.

Ground Turkey and Pasta Skillet

4.6 from 1520 votes

This one-pan ground turkey and pasta skillet is a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Lean ground turkey is browned with aromatics and simmered with pasta in a savory tomato sauce.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Skillet

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground turkey
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
8 ounces short pasta (such as rotini or penne)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
2Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion.
4Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
5Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
7Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
8Stir in the pasta, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the skillet with a lid.
9Simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 12 to 15 minutes.
10The pasta should be al dente and the sauce thickened.
11Remove the skillet from the heat.
12Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
13Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 680mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a creamier version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end. You can substitute ground chicken or beef for the turkey. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Ground Turkey and Pasta Skillet Works

This ground turkey and pasta recipe is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks because it’s easy to scale up or down depending on your needs.

You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to three months. When reheating, simply cook the pasta according to package instructions and combine it with the stored turkey mixture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Turkey and Pasta Skillet

Q: What is the origin of ground turkey and pasta?

This dish has its roots in Italian cuisine, where ground meat was often used in pasta sauces.

Q: Can I use leaner ground meat?

Yes, you can use leaner ground meat if you prefer a lower-fat option.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, cook it al dente, then let it cool slightly before mixing it with the turkey mixture.

Q: Can I add other vegetables besides onions and bell peppers?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta or substituting with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.

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