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Ground Turkey Pasta

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This Ground Turkey Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dinner option that combines lean ground turkey with pasta, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners, it’s budget-friendly, satisfying, and a hit with the whole family. Whether you're looking for a comfort meal or a healthier pasta option, this recipe will become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large yellow onion, diced

1 lb ground turkey

2 tsp salt (divided)

½ tsp black pepper

1 tsp Italian seasoning

5 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

1 cup half-and-half

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Red chili flakes, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions, but 1-2 minutes less. Reserve 1 cup of boiling pasta water before draining.

  • In a large pan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

  • Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.

  • Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine.

  • Slowly pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer.

  • Stir in half-and-half and cooked pasta. Add some reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.

  • Mix in mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted. Serve with a garnish of parsley and red chili flakes, if desired.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute with gluten-free pasta and flour.

  • For a vegetarian alternative, replace ground turkey with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein.

  • To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

  • Add extra veggies like peas, spinach, or kale to boost nutrition.