Delicious and Easy Ground Turkey Pasta Recipes: A Weeknight Dinner Guide
Ground turkey is a fantastic, healthy, and affordable alternative to ground beef, making it a staple in many kitchens. It’s incredibly versatile, and when paired with pasta, it becomes a quick, satisfying, and delicious meal. This article explores a variety of ground turkey pasta recipes, from classic Italian-inspired dishes to globally influenced creations, providing you with detailed instructions and tips to create perfect weeknight dinners. Get ready to discover your new go-to pasta dish!
Why Ground Turkey and Pasta are a Perfect Match
Ground turkey is lean and absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent protein choice for pasta dishes. It’s also a blank canvas that can be seasoned in countless ways. Compared to ground beef, it generally has less fat and fewer calories, offering a healthier option without sacrificing taste. The combination of ground turkey and pasta provides a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and the potential for plenty of vegetables.
Essential Tips for Cooking with Ground Turkey
Before diving into specific recipes, here are some essential tips to ensure your ground turkey pasta dishes turn out perfectly every time:
* **Don’t Overcook:** Ground turkey can dry out if overcooked. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, but still slightly moist.
* **Season Generously:** Ground turkey needs robust seasoning to bring out its flavor. Don’t be shy with herbs, spices, and aromatics.
* **Break it Up:** Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the ground turkey into small pieces as it cooks. This will help it cook evenly and incorporate better into the sauce.
* **Drain Excess Fat:** Although ground turkey is leaner than ground beef, it can still release some fat during cooking. Drain off any excess fat after browning the turkey.
* **Choose the Right Type:** Ground turkey comes in different levels of leanness. Opt for 93% lean or higher to minimize fat content. You can also use ground turkey breast, which is even leaner.
Recipe 1: Classic Italian Ground Turkey Bolognese
This is a comforting and flavorful take on the traditional Bolognese sauce, using ground turkey for a lighter twist. Serve it with your favorite pasta shape for a satisfying family meal.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 carrot, finely diced
* 1 celery stalk, finely diced
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni work well)
* Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** Add the ground turkey to the pot and break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes, draining off any excess fat.
3. **Add the Sauce Ingredients:** Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and red wine (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
4. **Simmer the Sauce:** Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the sauce simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
5. **Cook the Pasta:** While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
6. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a splash of cream or half-and-half to the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering for a richer flavor.
* Substitute Italian seasoning for the oregano and basil.
* Add diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the vegetables for extra flavor and nutrients.
* Use a different type of pasta, such as fettuccine or linguine.
Recipe 2: Ground Turkey and Spinach Pasta with Lemon-Garlic Sauce
This recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful option for a busy weeknight. The lemon-garlic sauce brightens the dish and complements the earthy spinach and savory ground turkey.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 5 ounces fresh spinach
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne work well)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add Garlic and Spinach:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Make the Sauce:** Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir to combine and simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey and spinach mixture. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use frozen spinach instead of fresh, making sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* Substitute ricotta cheese for the Parmesan cheese for a creamier sauce.
* Add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor.
Recipe 3: Ground Turkey Taco Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta, creating a fun and family-friendly dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chiles (Rotel), undrained
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (rotini, shells, or macaroni work well)
* Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, chopped cilantro
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add Taco Seasoning and Vegetables:** Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes and green chiles. Stir well to combine.
4. **Simmer the Sauce:** Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. **Combine and Serve:** Stir in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss to coat, until the cheese is melted and the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, avocado, and chopped cilantro.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra flavor and spice.
* Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
* Use ground chicken or beef instead of ground turkey.
Recipe 4: Creamy Pesto Ground Turkey Pasta
This recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of pesto with the added protein of ground turkey. The creamy sauce makes it extra comforting and satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* 1/2 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add Garlic and Pesto:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the pesto and cook for 1 minute, until heated through.
4. **Make the Sauce:** Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the pesto sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add sun-dried tomatoes or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.
* Use different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato pesto or kale pesto.
* Add cooked vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, to the pasta.
* Top with toasted pine nuts for added crunch.
Recipe 5: Ground Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff Pasta
A lighter take on the classic beef stroganoff, this recipe uses ground turkey and combines it with mushrooms and a creamy sour cream sauce for a comforting and flavorful dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup beef broth
* 1/4 cup sour cream
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (egg noodles, fettuccine, or pappardelle work well)
* Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add Garlic and Sauce Ingredients:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey and mushroom sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use cremini mushrooms or a mix of different types of mushrooms for more flavor.
* Add a splash of dry sherry to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
* Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
* Serve with a dollop of extra sour cream on top.
Recipe 6: Spicy Ground Turkey and Peanut Noodles
This recipe brings Asian-inspired flavors to your pasta dish, with a spicy peanut sauce that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 inch ginger, grated
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons peanut butter
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon honey
* 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more to taste)
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or udon noodles work well)
* Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, sesame seeds
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add Garlic and Ginger:** Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. **Make the Sauce:** In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and chicken broth. Pour the sauce over the turkey and stir to combine. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the peanut sauce. Toss to coat, until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Serve immediately, topped with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions, and sesame seeds.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli to the pasta for extra vegetables.
* Use different types of noodles, such as ramen or soba noodles.
* Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra acidity.
* Adjust the amount of sriracha to your desired level of spiciness.
Recipe 7: One-Pan Ground Turkey and Vegetable Pasta
This one-pan recipe simplifies cleanup and makes for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It’s packed with vegetables and flavor, and everything cooks together in one pan.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
* Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the Turkey:** Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
2. **Add Vegetables and Seasoning:** Add the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and chopped zucchini to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. **Add Pasta and Bake:** Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine, making sure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer, then cover and transfer to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally during baking to prevent the pasta from sticking.
4. **Serve:** Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or spinach.
* Add a can of drained and rinsed white beans for extra protein and fiber.
* Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
* Top with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, before serving.
Recipe 8: Ground Turkey Meatball Pasta Bake
This recipe features homemade ground turkey meatballs baked with pasta and marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying casserole.
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Meatballs:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, beaten
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
* **For the Pasta Bake:**
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rigatoni, or ziti work well)
* 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Olive oil, for drizzling
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meatballs:** In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs.
2. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
3. **Assemble the Casserole:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Pour half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the meatballs on top of the pasta, then pour the remaining pasta mixture over the meatballs. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs are cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add chopped onions or bell peppers to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
* Use Italian sausage in addition to ground turkey for a richer flavor.
* Add a layer of ricotta cheese between the pasta and meatballs for extra creaminess.
* Top with fresh basil leaves after baking.
Recipe 9: Mediterranean Ground Turkey Pasta with Feta
This recipe incorporates Mediterranean flavors like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a flavorful and healthy pasta dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 1/4 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. **Brown the Turkey:** While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
3. **Add Garlic, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Olives:** Add the minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and halved Kalamata olives to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes, until fragrant.
4. **Make the Sauce:** Pour in the chicken broth, lemon juice, and oregano. Stir to combine and simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey and vegetable mixture. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Serve immediately, topped with crumbled feta cheese.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for extra Mediterranean flavor.
* Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or Parmesan cheese.
* Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
* Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Recipe 10: Creamy Tomato and Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet
This creamy tomato pasta skillet comes together quickly in one pan, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. The creamy tomato sauce is rich and flavorful, and the ground turkey adds a satisfying protein boost.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ground turkey
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or farfalle work well)
* Optional: Red pepper flakes for a little heat
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the Turkey:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
2. **Add Garlic and Tomatoes:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste (and red pepper flakes, if using).
3. **Simmer and Add Cream:** Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for a few more minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
4. **Cook the Pasta:** While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
5. **Combine and Serve:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss to coat, adding a little pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top of each serving for extra creaminess.
* Stir in some chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
* Add cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the skillet.
* Use a can of diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for a chunkier sauce.
Conclusion
These ground turkey pasta recipes offer a variety of flavors and styles, providing options for every taste and occasion. From classic Italian Bolognese to spicy peanut noodles, you’re sure to find a new favorite weeknight dinner. With these easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips, you can create delicious and healthy meals that your whole family will enjoy. So, grab some ground turkey, your favorite pasta shape, and get cooking!