Looking for a delicious and effortless meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table? Our Turkey Meat and Pasta Skillet is the perfect solution. This one-pan dish combines tender ground turkey with al dente pasta and a rich, savory sauce, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Bursting with wholesome ingredients and simple seasonings, it’s a dish that’s not only satisfying but also quick to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal for yourself, this skillet recipe promises to deliver on taste and ease.
Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a touch of joy to your dinner routine.
Turkey Meat and Pasta Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- 1 cup homemade marinara sauce (recipe below)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Homemade Marinara Sauce:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
- Make the Marinara Sauce:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Turkey:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Combine and Heat:
- Pour 1 cup of the homemade marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked turkey. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to heat through.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and turkey mixture.
- Serve:
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe is Great:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Homemade Sauce: Fresh and customizable to your taste.
- Protein-Packed: Ground turkey provides lean protein.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite pasta shape and sauce.
Why This Recipe is Healthy:
- Creamy yogurt provides calcium, protein, and probiotics for gut health.
- Chia seeds add fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Fresh berries offer antioxidants, vitamins, and natural sweetness.
- Homemade fruit syrup keeps it natural, with no added preservatives.
- Granola and nuts contribute healthy fats, fiber, and additional protein.