Description
This Juicy and Easy Turkey Pasta is a hearty, family-friendly dinner made with lean ground turkey, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Turkey and Garlic: Add minced garlic and ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the turkey with a spoon, until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Add Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors and thicken slightly.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat all pasta with the sauce evenly.
- Serve: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley on top before serving to add flavor and garnish.
Notes
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables and nutrition.
- Use whole wheat pasta to increase fiber content.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
