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Juicy and Easy Turkey Pasta Recipe


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4.2 from 85 reviews

  • Author: Alice
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: High Protein

Description

This Juicy and Easy Turkey Pasta is a hearty, family-friendly dinner featuring lean ground turkey, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights seeking a nutritious and satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta

Protein and 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 and cook the penne or rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Sauté Onion: Heat 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 minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the lean ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the turkey is fully browned and no longer pink, approximately 6-7 minutes.
  4. Add Sauce and Seasonings: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked turkey. Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
  5. Simmer Sauce: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Toss Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the turkey tomato sauce. Toss thoroughly so every piece of pasta is coated with the sauce.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the pasta, mixing lightly. Serve immediately while hot for a juicy and flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Add fresh spinach or sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients.
  • Use whole wheat pasta to increase the dietary fiber content.
  • Store any 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