This ground turkey pasta combines lean meat, creamy tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a family-friendly meal. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and creates a comforting dinner that everyone will love.
This creamy turkey pasta has saved my weeknight dinner routine countless times. It’s my go to recipe when I need something quick yet satisfying that my whole family will enjoy. The combination of tender ground turkey and pasta in a rich tomato sauce creates pure comfort in a bowl.
Why This Recipe Never Fails
I love how this dish brings together lean protein with a sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. The best part is how flexible it is. Sometimes I toss in whatever veggies are sitting in my fridge or switch up the pasta shapes based on what I have in my pantry. It always turns out delicious no matter what.
What You’ll Need in Your Kitchen
- 12 oz penne pasta (any short pasta works great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 1 medium onion (chopped up small)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 3 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons flour (gluten free works too)
- 1 cup chicken broth (I prefer low sodium)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1/2 cup half and half (cream makes it extra luxurious)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I mix cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 cup of your favorite veggies
Let’s Cook Together
Start with the PastaGet your pasta cooking in well salted water. Save a cup of the cooking water before draining it really helps with the sauce.Cook the TurkeyWhile the pasta cooks, soften your onions in olive oil then add the turkey. Break it up as it browns to get nice even pieces.Make it SaucyOnce your turkey is cooked, add garlic and seasonings. Sprinkle in the flour, then pour in your broth and tomato sauce. Let it bubble away.Bring it All TogetherMix in your cooked pasta and half and half. Add cheese in two stages some for mixing and some on top. Let it get all melty and delicious.
Make it Your Own
Some nights I use gluten free pasta or swap in ground chicken. My kids love when I add their favorite veggies like peas or broccoli. I usually serve it with a simple salad on the side but honestly it’s perfectly satisfying on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape works well. Penne, rotini, or fusilli are great choices as they hold the sauce well in their ridges.→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.→ Can I make this healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat dairy, and add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini. The taste stays great while adding more nutrients.→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly, stirring often to keep the creamy texture.→ What can I serve with this pasta?
A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make perfect sides. Garlic bread is great for soaking up the extra sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
Boil pasta in salted water until just under done.
Save 1 cup pasta water before draining.
Heat oil in large pan over medium heat.
Cook onions until soft (5 minutes).
Add turkey, cook until browned.
Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning.
Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
Sprinkle flour over meat, stir well.
Pour in broth and tomato sauce, simmer.
Add cooked pasta and half-and-half.
Mix in half the cheeses.
Top with remaining cheese.
Cover until cheese melts.
Garnish with parsley and chili flakes.
Notes
- Can use ground beef instead.
- Use heavy cream for richer sauce.
- Can add vegetables.
- Great for meal prep.
- Easy to customize.
Tools You'll Need
- Large pot.
- Large pan or Dutch oven.
- Colander.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
- Calories: ~
- Total Fat: ~
- Total Carbohydrate: ~
- Protein: ~
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