Ground Turkey Pasta
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This Ground Turkey Pasta is a weeknight hero. It’s quick, protein-packed, and full of flavor. Juicy turkey, tender pasta, crunchy peppers, and a rich spaghetti sauce. It’s ready in 30 minutes, but tastes like you tried way harder. Top it with melty mozzarella or a sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or when you just want something hearty and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Pasta
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious, wholesome foods that support a balanced diet.
- Full of Flavor: Despite being healthy, this dish doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well for leftovers and makes your week smoother with ready-to-eat meals.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to different dietary needs or ingredient swaps.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready in 30 minutes or less, so you can spend less time in the kitchen.
Recipe Tips
- Season the turkey generously: Ground turkey can be mild; ample seasoning ensures a flavorful dish.
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed with the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water: Adding a splash can help achieve the desired sauce consistency.
- Sauté vegetables thoroughly: Properly cooked veggies enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Simmer the sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer melds flavors beautifully.
- Top with fresh herbs: Garnishing with basil or parsley adds freshness and color.
- Use quality cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella for optimal taste.
- Let the dish rest: A brief rest before serving allows flavors to settle.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently.
- Customize to taste: Adjust spices and ingredients to suit your preferences.
Ground Turkey Pasta Variations
- Creamy Alfredo twist: Replace spaghetti sauce with Alfredo for a rich, creamy version.
- Pesto infusion: Use basil pesto instead of tomato sauce for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Mediterranean style: Incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Veggie-loaded: Add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Cheesy bake: Top with cheese and bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
- Zoodle alternative: Use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb option.
- Asian-inspired: Swap sauce for soy-ginger glaze and add stir-fry vegetables.
- Lemon-parmesan flavor: Add lemon zest and juice for a bright, tangy twist.
- Taco pasta: Season with taco spices and top with cheddar and cilantro.
Ground Turkey Pasta
Quick, hearty, and protein-packed Ground Turkey Pasta with bell peppers and rich spaghetti sauce, ready in 30 minutes. A perfect weeknight or meal prep dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce
- salt and pepper to taste
- grated Parmesan or mozzarella for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced bell pepper and sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks for about 6–8 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let everything simmer for 3–5 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Top with cheese if desired and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition per serving (6 servings total):
- Calories: 327
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 71mg
- Sodium: 214mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 35g
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