Spicy Garlic Turkey Sausage Spaghetti Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Spicy Garlic Turkey Sausage Spaghetti Skillet is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The turkey sausage provides a savory, meaty base that pairs beautifully with the garlic and red pepper flakes, delivering just the right amount of heat. The fresh spinach or basil adds a burst of color and freshness, while the al dente pasta helps bring it all together. Whether you're craving something hearty or just need a quick weeknight meal, this skillet dish checks all the boxes for a flavorful, satisfying, and balanced meal.

Ingredients

For the Sausage & Pasta:

1. 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds

2. 8 oz spaghetti (or your preferred pasta)

3. 1 tablespoon olive oil

4. 4 cloves garlic, minced

5. 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

6. 2 cups fresh spinach or basil leaves

7. Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish:
8. Chopped fresh parsley or basil
9. Extra red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the garlic and red pepper flakes. Return the seared turkey sausage to the pan. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to help coat the pasta and sausage evenly in the garlicky oil. Add the fresh spinach or basil and toss until just wilted.

5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and extra red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: For extra nutrition, add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms along with the garlic and red pepper flakes.

• Swap the Pasta: Feel free to swap spaghetti for another type of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.

• Spicier Kick: If you love more heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped fresh chili to the skillet.

• Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, thyme, or even a touch of rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover Spicy Garlic Turkey Sausage Spaghetti Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to help loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken sausage instead of turkey sausage?

Yes, you can substitute chicken sausage if preferred. It will give a slightly different flavor but will work well in this recipe.

2. Can I make this recipe without pasta?

Absolutely! You can skip the pasta and serve the turkey sausage and garlic mixture with rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

3. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Frozen spinach works fine as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.

4. How can I make this dish less spicy?

To reduce the heat, you can omit the red pepper flakes or use a smaller amount. You can also add a bit of honey to balance out the spice.

5. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, adding grated parmesan or pecorino cheese on top before serving would be a great addition.

6. Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta if necessary.

7. Can I freeze the leftovers?

While freezing the pasta is not ideal as it may become mushy, you can freeze the sausage and sauce mixture separately and reheat it with fresh pasta later.

8. How do I know when the sausage is cooked through?

The turkey sausage should be browned on both sides and no longer pink in the center. If you're unsure, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F internally.

9. Can I use fresh garlic instead of minced garlic?

Yes, fresh garlic is preferred, but if you have garlic powder, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.

10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the turkey sausage with a plant-based sausage or any other vegetarian protein.

Conclusion

This Spicy Garlic Turkey Sausage Spaghetti Skillet is a perfect weeknight meal when you want something quick, flavorful, and satisfying. With the spicy kick of red pepper flakes, the savory turkey sausage, and the freshness of spinach or basil, it’s a dish that will become a family favorite in no time. Whether you enjoy it as-is or add your own twist, this recipe is guaranteed to impress!