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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the jar of marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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