Transform Your Family Dinner with This Classic Comfort Homemade Ground Turkey Pasta!
Indulge in the comfort of a classic pasta dish with a healthier twist: Minced Turkey Pasta.
This dish is a perfect blend of lean ground turkey, aromatic spices, and a hearty pasta sauce, served over your choice of pasta.
It’s not only a burst of Italian flavors but also a satisfying meal that brings the family together.
The mix of ground turkey with garlic, onions, and a rich tomato sauce, coupled with the ease and simplicity of a one-pan dish, creates a meal that’s both freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep.
Whether you’re aiming to impress at a family gathering or looking for an easy pasta recipe for weeknight dinners, this ground turkey pasta promises to be a staple in your culinary collection.
Why Ground Turkey Pasta Is a “Must-Try”
Ground Turkey Pasta stands out as not only a heartwarming comfort food but also a versatile and budget-friendly recipe that fits seamlessly into any meal plan, even during the busiest week.
- Homemade: The mix of lean turkey simmered in a savory meat sauce embodies the essence of home-cooked meals.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: From a quick and easy dinner to a special dish for Easter dinner or Christmas meal ideas, this pasta adapts to suit any need, ensuring leftovers are just as delightful the next day.
- Healthful and Satisfying: Utilizing ingredients like ground turkey and whole wheat pasta, this dish finds the perfect balance between rich flavor and nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome choice for family meals.
What Goes Into This Turkey Mince Pasta?
- Ground Turkey: Opt for lean ground turkey for a lower-calorie option; about 1 pound is ideal for a family serving.
- Garlic: Two cloves, minced, for a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the turkey.
- Onion: One medium onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and texture to the sauce.
- Tomato Sauce: One 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes forms the base of the pasta sauce.
- Italian Seasoning: A teaspoon adds a classic herbaceous note.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the turkey and onions; about 2 tablespoons.
- Pasta: Your choice of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, cooked according to package instructions.
- Chicken Broth: A cup of chicken broth add depth of flavor.
How to Make Homemade Ground Turkey Pasta
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning into the skillet with the turkey. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook Pasta: While the turkey sauce simmers, boil pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
What to Serve with Ground Turkey Pasta
The beauty of Ground Turkey Pasta lies in its flexibility to complement a wide range of side dishes.
From a simple salad for a light summer dish to roasted vegetables for a hearty winter comfort food, it’s a perfect midweek dinner that satisfies all year round.
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with a simple vegetable side dish, making for a nutritious family meal.
It’s a one-dish wonder that’s ideal for quick weeknight dinners, summer pasta dishes, or as a comforting winter meal.
- Caprese Salad: This simple salad with tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic, provides a fresh and tangy balance.
- Greek Salad: A vibrant Greek salad, with its feta cheese, olives, and cucumber, introduces a Mediterranean flair that pairs beautifully with the pasta.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool and tangy cucumber salad, often dressed in vinegar or yogurt, offers a crunchy and refreshing side that cleanses the palate.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: This pasta freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal option. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Looking for More Delicious Pasta Recipes?
Try These Reader Favorites:
- White Wine Pasta
- Creamy Tuscan Pasta
- Roasted Red Pepper Pasta Recipe
- Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
- Penne alla Vodka
Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe
Savor the simplicity and richness of Ground Turkey Pasta, an easy-to-make, delicious dish. Ideal for busy weeknights, this family dinner, it's easy to prepare and packed with flavor, ready to enjoy in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and finely chopped onion, cooking until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning into the skillet with the turkey. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook Pasta: While the turkey sauce simmers, boil pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Combine and Serve: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
Notes
- Brown the Turkey Well: Ensure the ground turkey is well-browned to develop deep flavors. Browning adds a rich texture and taste to the pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Before draining your pasta, reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water. It's useful for adjusting the sauce's consistency, making it silky and ensuring it clings to the pasta.
- Let It Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for a while after adding the tomatoes. This cooking process melds the flavors together and thickens the sauce.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 505Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 18gCholesterol 120mgSodium 233mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 34g