Are you looking for a hassle-free and delicious dinner recipe? This ground turkey pasta is your answer! It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and satisfying for the whole family. This recipe combines lean ground turkey with your favorite pasta shells in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, creating a comforting and wholesome meal. Let’s get cooking!
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Ground Turkey
Start by browning the ground turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Be sure to break it apart as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the turkey is no longer pink, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, sauté your choice of vegetables. Onions and garlic are a great starting point! Cook them until softened and fragrant. For extra flavor, add your favorite seasonings at this stage. To create a richer sauce, stir in a bit of flour and cook for a minute, ensuring it’s well combined. This will help thicken the sauce beautifully.
Combine and Simmer
Pour in your tomato sauce and broth into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, add the cooked ground turkey back into the sauce.
Add Pasta and Cream
Now for the best part! Stir in your cooked shell pasta. For an extra creamy texture and richer flavor, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Combine everything well, ensuring the pasta is coated in the delicious sauce.
Serve and Enjoy!
Let the pasta simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of black pepper or chili flakes can add an extra kick if you like a little heat. Enjoy this comforting and easy ground turkey pasta dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with lentil pasta, chickpea pasta, or any gluten-free pasta you prefer. These options often provide added protein and fiber, making your meal even more nutritious.
Can I use a different protein instead of ground turkey?
Yes, you can easily swap ground turkey for ground chicken, ground beef, or ground Italian sausage. Keep in mind that ground beef and Italian sausage have a higher fat content, so you may need to drain off any excess fat after browning the meat.
What other vegetables can I include in this pasta recipe?
Get creative with your veggies! Spinach, zucchini, carrots, or peas all work wonderfully. For zucchini and carrots, sauté them along with the onions and garlic. If you’re using spinach or peas, stir them in towards the end of cooking, just until they are heated through.
