Dinner just got a whole lot easier with this Ground Turkey Pasta! Juicy, flavorful turkey meets a hearty tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and family-approved. It’s the ultimate weeknight comfort meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Satisfying: Made with lean ground turkey and a rich tomato sauce, it’s a feel-good meal everyone will enjoy.
- Quick and Easy: A delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes – perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly Favorite: The hearty flavors and comforting pasta make it a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Crushed Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce: Serve as the flavorful base of the sauce, adding richness and tang to the dish.
- Ground Turkey: Provides lean protein, making the pasta hearty and satisfying.
- Spinach: Adds a nutritious boost and vibrant color, complementing the flavors with its mild taste.
- Chopped Onion: Contributes sweetness and aromatic depth, enhancing the sauce's complexity.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic depth, elevating the savory notes.
- Parmesan: Adds richness and a creamy texture, finishing the pasta with a savory touch.
- Penne Pasta: Offers structure and a perfect base, readily absorbing the sauce and flavors.
- Oregano: Introduces a warm, earthy flavor, adding a classic Italian touch to the dish.
- Black Pepper: Provides a subtle spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a mild heat.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
Variations
- Turkey Bolognese: Use ground turkey in a slow-simmered sauce with garlic, onion, and crushed tomatoes for a lighter take on classic Bolognese.
- Spicy Turkey Arrabbiata: Add crushed red pepper flakes and a spicy tomato sauce for a fiery kick.
- Creamy Turkey Alfredo: Swap tomato sauce for a rich Alfredo sauce, and toss with spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
How To Make Ground Turkey Pasta
Step One: Add onion and garlic to the pan. You can cook using olive oil or adding water. Add turkey and spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
Step Two: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Step Three: Add sauce, turkey, and spinach to the pasta.
Step Four: Mix. If desired, simmer for up to 5 minutes. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Tips and Tricks
- Cook Evenness: Use a non-stick skillet to ensure the turkey cooks evenly and doesn't stick.
- Pasta Cooking Precision: Cook the penne until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce and turkey. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce's consistency if needed.
- Plating Techniques: Use tongs to twirl pasta into nests on plates for an elegant presentation.
How To Store Ground Turkey Pasta
- Refrigeration: Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To maintain optimal flavor, avoid overcrowding the container.
- Freezing: If you plan to store the pasta longer, freezing is a good option. Divide the pasta into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: For refrigerated pasta, reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to help maintain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. For frozen pasta, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the same methods.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is a classic choice that adds a satisfying crunch to your pasta dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring a pop of color and a healthy balance to the meal.
- Caprese Salad: Featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze, this salad complements the pasta’s flavors beautifully.
- Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus seasoned with lemon and olive oil offers a simple and elegant side dish.
- Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with olive oil, lemon juice, and shaved Parmesan for a peppery and tangy accompaniment.
FAQ'S
Yes, but enhance it with sautéed onion, garlic, and fresh herbs like oregano and basil for a homemade taste.
Yes, you can cook the pasta and turkey mixture ahead. Combine them just before reheating to prevent the pasta from soaking up too much sauce.
Yes! Spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms are great additions to boost nutrition and flavor.
Ground Turkey Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Tomato Sauce Or Crushed Tomatoes
- 1 Cup Ground Turkey
- 1 Cup Spinach
- ½ Cup Chopped Onion
- 2 Garlic Cloves
- 3 tbsp. Parmesan
- 1 ½ Cup Penne Pasta
- 1 tsp. Oregano
- ¼ tsp. Black Pepper
- ¼ tsp. Salt
Instructions
- Add onion and garlic to the pan. You can cook using olive oil or adding water. Add turkey and spices. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- Add sauce, turkey, and spinach to the pasta.
- Mix. If desired, simmer for up to 5 minutes. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Nutrition
More Turkey Recipes To Try
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- Air Fryer Turkey Legs
- Air Fryer Turkey Cups
- Easy Texas Smoked Turkey Breast
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- Cold Chicken Pasta Salad With Italian Dressing
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- Breakfast Sliders With Sausage, Egg And Cheese
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