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Ground Turkey Pasta

Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta That Everyone Will Love

Enjoy this creamy ground turkey pasta that combines indulgence with health, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta Substitute with any preferred pasta shape.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with canola or vegetable oil.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Red onion can be used for a sharper taste.
  • 1 lb Ground Turkey Can substitute with ground chicken or beef.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to dietary needs.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked is recommended.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Can substitute with dried oregano, basil, or thyme.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced or garlic powder may work in a pinch.
  • 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour is an alternative.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • 15 oz Tomato Sauce Canned diced tomatoes can give a chunkier texture.
  • 1 cup Half-and-Half Can be replaced with heavy cream or non-dairy milk.
For the Cheesy Finish
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese May substitute with provolone or dairy-free cheese.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Any melty cheese can be used.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley For garnish.
  • 1 tsp Red Chili Flakes Optional for heat.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Directions
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until just al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water, then drain.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.
  3. Brown Turkey: Add ground turkey to skillet, breaking apart with a spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Build Sauce: Sprinkle all-purpose flour over turkey mixture, stir for 1 minute. Gradually pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Add drained pasta and half-and-half to skillet. Combine thoroughly, add reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
  6. Add Cheese: Reduce heat to low, sprinkle half of mozzarella and cheddar cheese over pasta. Stir gently until melted, add remaining cheese on top, cover for 1 minute.
  7. Serve: Once cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with parsley and red chili flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Customize with seasonal vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

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