Ground Turkey Pasta is not just another dish to add to your weeknight meal rotation; it’s a comforting, nutritious, and flavorful option that can easily satisfy your cravings while keeping your health goals in check.
Why We Love This Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe
Ground Turkey Pasta takes comfort food to a whole new level. First and foremost, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional pasta meals that often rely on heavier meats and sauces. Lean ground turkey is not only lower in fat but also provides an excellent source of protein, helping keep you full and satisfied.
Additionally, the use of fresh vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of your meal. You’ll be pleased to know that kids often love it, too! The creamy, rich sauce creates an enjoyable texture, making it easier for even the picky eaters to dig in happily.
Finally, the best part about this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily swap in different veggies, add extra spices, or even play with the creaminess according to your preferences. With Ground Turkey Pasta, your dinner is bound to be a hit every time.
Ingredients About Ground Turkey Pasta
Here’s everything you need to make your Ground Turkey Pasta come to life:
- 16 ounces DeLallo Tortiglioni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped finely
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounces) can DeLallo San Marzano Style Crushed Tomatoes
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
- 1 generous handful fresh basil, torn
- Pepper to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional)
These simple, wholesome ingredients will come together to create a mouthwatering dish that’s hard to resist!
How to Make Ground Turkey Pasta Directions
Creating your Ground Turkey Pasta is an easy and rewarding process! Follow these straightforward steps to bring your culinary creation to life:
Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat. Once heated, add your chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté them together for about 7-8 minutes, or until they are tender and the onions become translucent.
Next, introduce the ground turkey and minced garlic into the pot. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the turkey as it cooks. You’ll want to continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the turkey is cooked through and browned.
Once the meat is browned, add the canned crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together well, and allow it to simmer for around 15 minutes. Adjust the lid slightly so steam can escape, and remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
While the turkey sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the tortiglioni pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain the pasta when done, reserving a bit of the pasta water.
When the turkey sauce has simmered and thickened, stir in the heavy cream (if you’re using it) and the torn basil leaves. Let this warm through for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Taste the sauce and season with additional pepper or salt if needed. Finally, toss the drained pasta with the sauce, adding a splash of that reserved pasta water if it seems too thick.
Serve your Ground Turkey Pasta in bowls, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Your flavorful dish is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Ground Turkey Pasta
Serving Ground Turkey Pasta is easy and can be done in various ways, depending on your mood or occasion. Consider plating the pasta in vibrant, colorful bowls for a casual family dinner or elegant white plates for a more sophisticated presentation.
To elevate your meal, sprinkle some extra fresh basil on top for a pop of color and added freshness. Additionally, freshly grated parmesan cheese adds a lovely touch of flavor.
For side dishes, consider pairing your pasta with a vibrant green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a fresh complement. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables also pairs well, contributing added texture and health benefits.
Lastly, don’t forget to enjoy your meal with your favorite drink, whether it be sparkling water, herbal tea, or a refreshing mocktail.
Expert Tips: Ground Turkey Pasta
Making a delicious Ground Turkey Pasta can be even more rewarding with a few expert tips!
- Don’t Skimp on the Seasoning: Ground turkey can be quite mild in flavor, so ensuring that your spices and herbs are fresh can vastly improve the dish’s taste. Adjust the seasonings as per your preferences!
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the recipe. They will add more flavors and nutrients.
- Make It Your Own: Consider adding different types of pasta based on what you have on hand. Penne, rotini, or linguine would all work wonderfully.
- Simmering Time: Allowing the sauce to simmer longer can deepen the flavors. If you have time, feel free to let it cook gently over low heat.
- Cream Variations: If you want a lighter option, you can skip the cream altogether or substitute half-and-half or almond milk to reduce calories.
How to Store Ground Turkey Pasta
Storing your Ground Turkey Pasta is easy and hassle-free. If you have any leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help retain moisture and prevent spoilage.
Your Ground Turkey Pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply warm it up in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the pasta seems dry.
If you’d like to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for approximately 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in a pot or microwave, just as you would with refrigerated leftovers.
Variation of Ground Turkey Pasta
Getting creative with your Ground Turkey Pasta can keep it exciting and tailored to your tastes! Here are a few variations to try:
- Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. The addition of lemon zest can also brighten the flavors.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spice, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace ground turkey with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. The flavor profile can remain the same while making it vegan-friendly.
- Creamy Spinach: Toss in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach towards the end of cooking. It wilts beautifully and adds great nutrients and color.
- Alfredo Comfort: For a richer dish, substitute the crushed tomatoes with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different but equally delicious experience.
FAQ: Ground Turkey Pasta
What type of pasta should I use for Ground Turkey Pasta?
You can use virtually any kind of pasta for your Ground Turkey Pasta. While tortiglioni works wonderfully, consider penne, rotini, or spaghetti as alternatives that will hold the sauce well.
Is Ground Turkey Pasta healthy?
Yes, Ground Turkey Pasta is considered a healthy dish due to its lean protein, colorful vegetables, and the option to adjust the heaviness of the sauce. You control all the ingredients, making it easier to cater to dietary preferences.
How can I make Ground Turkey Pasta gluten-free?
To create a gluten-free version of Ground Turkey Pasta, use gluten-free pasta alternatives available in many stores. The rest of the recipe can remain the same, ensuring a delicious meal that accommodates gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare Ground Turkey Pasta in advance?
Absolutely! Ground Turkey Pasta stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy reheating later.
Ground Turkey Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Cooking Essentials
- 16 ounces DeLallo Tortiglioni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
- 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped finely
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can DeLallo San Marzano Style Crushed Tomatoes (28 ounces)
Seasonings and Cream
- 1/2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
- Pepper to taste pepper
- to taste freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Garnish
- 1 generous handful fresh basil, torn
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep pot over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 7-8 minutes until tender.
Cooking
- Introduce ground turkey and minced garlic. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until turkey is browned.
- Add crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- While the sauce simmers, boil salted water in a separate pot and cook tortiglioni according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain pasta, reserving some pasta water, then mix with the turkey sauce.
- If using, stir in heavy cream and torn basil leaves. Allow to warm through.
Serving
- Serve in bowls topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired.