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Easy Ground Turkey Pasta

Easy Ground Turkey Pasta (Quick 30-Minute Dinner)

This easy ground turkey pasta combines tender penne, lean ground turkey, garlic, Italian herbs, and a rich tomato sauce for a delicious 30-minute dinner. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it's a comforting, budget-friendly family meal perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

For The Pasta

  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced

For the Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley chopped (optional)
  • Reserved pasta water as needed

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Reserve a little pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  • Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  • Brown the Ground Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon and cook for approximately 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Verify that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Add the Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about one minute, stirring to coat the turkey evenly with the seasonings.
  • Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors combine.
  • Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick, and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Top with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve warm with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

 
  • Pasta choice: Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli all work well.
  • Turkey: Lean ground turkey is a convenient choice. Cook it thoroughly to 165°F (74°C).
  • Sauce consistency: Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Extra vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or fresh spinach.
  • Cheese: Parmesan adds savory flavor. Add it gradually and taste before adding extra salt.
  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for best quality within 2–3 months.
  • Reheating: Add a splash of broth or water and reheat until the leftovers reach 165°F (74°C).
 

Nutrition Facts

 
  • Calories: 430 kcal
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Total Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
 
Note: These are estimates per serving. Actual nutrition depends on the ground turkey's fat content, pasta brand, broth, and Parmesan cheese.