Looking for a delicious and healthy twist on your pasta night? Ground turkey pasta recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy your favorite dishes while keeping them lean and flavorful.
Whether you’re whipping up a classic spaghetti Bolognese, a zesty turkey marinara, or a creamy turkey alfredo, these recipes are not only simple to prepare but also packed with protein. Dive into these tasty ideas and elevate your weeknight meals!
Spicy Turkey Penne Arrabbiata
If you’re in the mood for something zesty and satisfying, Spicy Turkey Penne Arrabbiata is the dish for you! This recipe features a delicious interplay of spicy and savory flavors, making it a go-to choice for weeknight dinners. The combination of ground turkey with a spicy arrabbiata sauce is not only delicious but also a healthier option compared to traditional ground beef dishes.
The vibrant presentation of this dish, full of penne pasta coated in a rich red sauce and sprinkled with fresh basil, truly makes it inviting. You can almost taste the heat from the chili flakes just by looking at it!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Toss in the cooked penne and ensure it’s well coated with the sauce.
- Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of chili flakes if desired.
This Spicy Turkey Penne Arrabbiata dish brings warmth and excitement to your dining table. It’s great for a quick meal and perfect for leftovers. Enjoy the tasty twist!
Turkey Taco Pasta Bake
Picture a warm, cheesy dish that marries the flavors of tacos and pasta. The Turkey Taco Pasta Bake is just that! It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. The combination of ground turkey, pasta, beans, and spices all baked together creates a delightful one-pot meal.
The golden, crunchy topping adds a nice texture that perfectly contrasts with the creamy filling beneath. Plus, it’s as colorful as it is tasty! You’ll see vibrant peppers, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese that makes you want to dig right in.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 8 ounces shell pasta
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the shell pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, taco seasoning, and cooked pasta. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is golden and crispy.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful meal!
Turkey Bolognese with Whole Wheat Spaghetti
This Turkey Bolognese with Whole Wheat Spaghetti is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic comfort dish. The combination of ground turkey and rich tomato sauce creates a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Whole wheat spaghetti adds a touch of fiber to the dish, making it an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthier. Plus, the vibrant colors of the sauce and pasta make it visually appealing. Paired with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz whole wheat spaghetti
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the whole wheat spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the Bolognese sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Plate the Turkey Bolognese and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Also Read: 10 Delicious Ground Turkey Crockpot Recipes to Try Tonight
Mediterranean Turkey Pasta Salad
If you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful dish, this Mediterranean turkey pasta salad hits the spot. It’s packed with tasty ingredients that blend perfectly, making it a fantastic option for lunch or dinner. The colorful mix of vegetables, turkey, and olives brings a bit of the Mediterranean right to your table.
The recipe is also incredibly easy to whip up. You can prepare it ahead of time and serve it chilled, which makes it perfect for picnics or potlucks. It’s hearty but not too heavy, and you can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 pound ground turkey, cooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, ground turkey, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, green olives, red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix Everything: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Enjoy!
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
This Turkey and Spinach Lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic dish. Packed with lean ground turkey and fresh spinach, it’s both flavorful and healthy. The layers of lasagna sheets combined with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and marinara sauce create a hearty meal that everyone will love.
When preparing this dish, the aroma of herbs and garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait until it’s fully baked. This dish is perfect for serving family or friends, and it also makes for excellent leftovers!
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Turkey: In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the chopped spinach until wilted.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half of the turkey mixture, half of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Sprinkle with Parmesan before serving.
Creamy Ground Turkey Alfredo
This creamy ground turkey alfredo is a twist on a classic favorite. The dish combines tender fettuccine pasta with ground turkey in a rich, velvety sauce. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering.
The beautiful image showcases the creamy pasta topped with savory ground turkey and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The garlic bread on the side looks delicious and would complement this meal perfectly. With simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting plate of alfredo that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine: Toss the cooked fettuccine into the skillet with the sauce and turkey. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Plate the creamy alfredo, garnish with chopped parsley, and enjoy!
Also Read: 10 Easy Ground Turkey Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Garlic and Herb Turkey Linguine
This Garlic and Herb Turkey Linguine is a delightful take on a classic dish. The combination of tender ground turkey, fresh herbs, and garlic creates a mouthwatering sauce that clings perfectly to the linguine. It’s not just delicious; it’s also a healthier option that the whole family will love. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal!
The key to this recipe is using quality herbs and garlic. They add layers of flavor that elevate the dish. Plus, it’s quick to make, so it’s ideal for busy weeknights or a casual dinner gathering.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces linguine
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Mix in Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. If you like a little kick, add some red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked linguine to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the turkey and herbs.
- Serve: Plate the linguine, topping it with additional parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Garlic and Herb Turkey Linguine!
One-Pot Turkey Pasta Primavera
Brighten up your dinner with a colorful One-Pot Turkey Pasta Primavera! This dish combines the comforting goodness of pasta with the earthy flavors of fresh vegetables and the lean protein of ground turkey. It’s a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition or flavor.
The image showcases a vibrant medley of veggies cooked with rotini pasta and tender ground turkey. You can see beautiful broccoli, sweet bell peppers, and juicy cherry tomatoes all mingling together, creating an appealing dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious. A touch of olive oil adds a nice sheen, while freshly grated cheese sprinkled on top just makes it irresistible!
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying. The best part? It all cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup zucchini, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot or skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth, then add the pasta. Bring to a boil.
- Add broccoli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and peas. Season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and veggies are tender.
- Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost!
Lemon Basil Ground Turkey Fettuccine
This Lemon Basil Ground Turkey Fettuccine is a quick and delightful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The fresh lemon and fragrant basil elevate the dish, making it light and refreshing. Imagine twirling those tender fettuccine noodles coated in a zesty sauce flavored with ground turkey, garlic, and a punch of citrus. It not only tastes delicious but also looks fantastic on the plate!
To make this dish, you don’t need fancy ingredients. A simple combination of ground turkey, fettuccine pasta, fresh basil, and lemon juice makes for a wholesome meal. The garlic brings out the flavors, while the lemon zest adds a refreshing kick. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic pasta dish with a twist that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then add the lemon juice and zest, followed by salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet with the turkey and gently toss to combine. Stir in the chopped basil and allow everything to heat through.
- Serve: Plate the fettuccine and top with more fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Also Read: 10 Delicious Recipes to Make with Ground Turkey
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff. This dish combines tender ground turkey with creamy sauce and earthy mushrooms. It’s perfect over egg noodles, making it a family-friendly option.
The rich flavors and textures create a satisfying meal any day of the week. The mushrooms add a delightful umami depth, while the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess, and you’re in for a treat!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tbsp flour
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Brown the Turkey: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add the Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the turkey mixture and stir to combine. Gradually pour in the broth, then add the paprika. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Gently fold the cooked noodles into the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.