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Juicy and Easy Turkey Pasta Recipe


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4.3 from 63 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Juicy and Easy Turkey Pasta is a hearty and wholesome dinner featuring lean ground turkey cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce, combined with tender pasta for a family-friendly meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with Italian-American flavors. Ideal for busy weeknights, it delivers satisfying protein and rich taste in every bite.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta

Turkey Sauce

  • 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley


Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne or rotini pasta. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Cook Turkey and Garlic: Add the minced garlic and lean ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the turkey with a spoon, until it is fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the jar of marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  5. Simmer Sauce: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  6. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to ensure all the pasta is coated with the turkey tomato sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top before serving to add flavor and freshness.

Notes

  • Add spinach or mushrooms during the sauté step for extra vegetables and nutrients.
  • Use whole wheat pasta for more dietary fiber and a heartier texture.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American