Name: Ground Turkey Pasta: 5 Irresistible Family-Friendly Recipes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound lean ground turkey; 1/2 small onion (finely chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 teaspoons paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 1/2 cups dried short cut pasta (approximately 8 ounces); 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup milk; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

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Ground Turkey Pasta is a simple, comforting one-pan dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes. This dish combines lean ground turkey, pasta, and a few spices to create a hearty, flavorful meal the whole family will love. Perfect for busy nights, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Pasta

This Ground Turkey Pasta is not just quick to prepare; it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to love it:

High in protein with 37g per serving, making it a healthy turkey pasta meal.
Utilizes lean ground turkey, a healthier alternative to beef.
Your family will enjoy the creamy texture and savory flavors.
One-pan meal means less cleanup.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables, making it a ground turkey pasta with vegetables dish.
Perfect for meal prepping, allowing for quick ground turkey pasta dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients for Ground Turkey Pasta

Gather these items:

1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground turkey
1/2 small onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 1/2 cups dried short cut pasta (approximately 8 ounces)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

How to Make Ground Turkey Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet heat the oil over medium high heat. Once it is hot add the ground turkey and onion. Cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking apart into small pieces, until the turkey is no longer pink and the onions are soft.
Step 2: Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until you can start to smell it.
Step 3: Mix in the spices and stir to coat the meat.
Step 4: Add in the dried pasta with the chicken broth and milk. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Step 5: Remove from the heat and stir in the cheese until it is melted. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ground Turkey Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use a non-stick skillet for easier cooking and cleanup.
Feel free to mix in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for an even healthier turkey pasta.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste preference.

Ground Turkey Pasta: 5 Irresistible Family-Friendly Recipes - Ground Turkey Pasta - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Ground Turkey Pasta

Here are some delicious serving ideas:

Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
Serve as a base for a ground turkey pasta bake with extra cheese and bake in the oven.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Turkey Pasta

To store your Ground Turkey Pasta, cool it completely and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. This makes it a great option for meal prep, ensuring you have quick ground turkey pasta dinners ready to go!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Turkey Pasta

What is ground turkey pasta?

Ground turkey pasta is a delicious dish that combines lean ground turkey with pasta and flavorful spices. It’s a healthy version of traditional pasta dishes, often featuring a creamy sauce.

Can I make ground turkey pasta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this meal ahead of time. Just cook the ingredients, let them cool, and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat when you’re ready to eat!

How do I avoid common mistakes with ground turkey pasta?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you cook the turkey until it’s fully browned, and don’t overcook the pasta. Check for tenderness after 8 minutes to avoid mushiness.

Variations of Ground Turkey Pasta You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations to consider:

Try a Ground Turkey Alfredo Pasta by adding Alfredo sauce instead of the milk for a creamy texture.
Make a Ground Turkey Fettuccine Recipe using fettuccine noodles instead of short pasta.
Consider a Ground Turkey and Whole Wheat Pasta option for a healthier twist.
For a veggie boost, add in a mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to create a ground turkey pasta with vegetables dish.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our homemade tomato sauce or explore spaghetti with garlic and oil for a quick meal option. You can also try our Mediterranean chickpea salad for a refreshing side dish.