Making dinner doesn’t have to be a chore! If you’re searching for an Easy Food To Make For Dinner that’s both satisfying and quick, look no further than this delicious ground turkey pasta. It’s a simple recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting and flavorful meal on the table fast.
Quick and Easy Steps for Ground Turkey Pasta
This recipe is broken down into simple, manageable steps, ensuring even beginner cooks can whip up a fantastic dinner. Let’s get started!
Brown the Ground Turkey
First, you’ll want to cook your ground turkey. Place it in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink. Season it simply with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Once cooked through, transfer the ground turkey to a bowl and set it aside temporarily. This prevents overcooking and keeps it tender while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté Aromatic Vegetables
Now, it’s time to build the flavor base for our pasta sauce. In the same skillet, sauté your choice of vegetables. Onions and garlic are classic choices that provide a savory foundation. Add your favorite seasonings – Italian seasoning, oregano, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add depth. For a thicker, creamier sauce, stir in a spoonful of flour and cook for about a minute. This creates a roux, which acts as a thickening agent, ensuring the sauce beautifully coats the pasta.
Simmer in Tomato Sauce and Broth
Pour in your tomato sauce and broth to create the main body of the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together. Simmering also helps to slightly reduce and thicken the sauce. Now, return the cooked ground turkey to the skillet and stir it in, combining it with the developing sauce. We’re getting closer to a delicious and easy food to make for dinner!
Add Pasta, Cream, and Parmesan
The “good stuff” is next! Add your cooked shell pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer) to the sauce. For a rich and creamy finish, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan adds a salty, savory depth that complements the tomato sauce and ground turkey perfectly.
Serve and Enjoy
At first, the pasta might appear a bit soupy. Simply continue to simmer and stir occasionally until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh basil, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of black pepper or chili flakes for a touch of heat. This easy food to make for dinner is ready to be served and enjoyed!
FAQ About Ground Turkey Pasta
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta options like lentil pasta or chickpea pasta work wonderfully. They often provide an extra boost of protein and fiber, making your easy food to make for dinner even more nutritious.
What other proteins can I substitute for ground turkey?
If you’re not a fan of ground turkey, or simply want to switch things up, ground chicken, ground beef, or ground Italian sausage are all excellent substitutes. Keep in mind that ground beef and Italian sausage have higher fat content, so you may need to drain off any excess fat after browning.
Are there other vegetables I can add to this pasta dish?
Yes, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, carrots, or peas would all be delicious additions. For zucchini and carrots, sauté them alongside the onions and garlic. Spinach and peas are best stirred in at the end, just before serving, to retain their vibrant color and texture.
