Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta A Comforting Flavor Packed Meal Recipe

Ever have one of those evenings where you’re craving something cozy but also a little out of the ordinary? Allow me to introduce you to your new weeknight hero: a cheesy ground turkey pasta dish that’s gonna take comfort food to the next level without breaking a sweat.

I enjoy crafting recipes that fuse comfort with nourishment, and my Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta is no exception. This delicious dish combines protein-rich ground turkey, substantial pasta, and fantastic veggies like onion and green bell pepper.

My only regret is that I didn’t think to make it sooner. With a touch of Italian seasoning and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any weeknight.

Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta A Comforting Flavor Packed Meal Recipe Ingredients

• Ground Turkey: Lean source of protein, low in fat, heart-healthy choice.
• Pasta: Carbohydrate provider, offers energy, choose whole grain for fiber boost.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, contains vitamins and antioxidants.
• Garlic: Enhances flavor, known for anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Green Bell Pepper: Provides crunch, rich in vitamin C, adds vibrant color.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and sweetness, source of lycopene, good for heart health.
• Cheddar Cheese: Adds creaminess, source of calcium and protein, enhances flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Offers a salty umami kick, rich in calcium and protein.

Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta A Comforting Flavor Packed Meal Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 8 ounces pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make this Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta A Comforting Flavor Packed Meal Recipe

1. Put a big pot of water with salt in it on the stove and turn up the heat. When the water’s bubbling like a hot spring, add the pasta (and don’t forget to stir for the first minute or so). Cook it for about half the time suggested on the package. You want the pasta to be a bit firmer than you might normally prefer because it will continue cooking in the next step.

2. In a big frying pan over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. When it heats up, toss in the diced onion and sauté it until it’s see-through, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Place the minced garlic and chopped green bell pepper in the pan, and keep cooking for another 2 minutes, or until the veggies soften.

4. Relegate the vegetables to one side of the skillet and place the ground turkey on the other. Brown the turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.

5. Blend the cooked vegetables and turkey, then add the Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

6. Add the diced tomatoes (with juices) and the chicken broth to the pot. Mix well and bring to a simmer.

7. Allow the flavors to meld and the liquid to reduce slightly by letting the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes.

8. Combine the turkey mixture and the pasta in the skillet. Toss gently.

Fold the cooked pasta into the turkey and vegetable mixture.

9. Shed the cheese and Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until the cheese has melted and the pasta is now cheesed.

10. Serve the cheesy ground turkey pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta A Comforting Flavor Packed Meal Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Large frying pan or skillet
3. Stirring spoon
4. Cutting board
5. Chef’s knife
6. Measuring spoons
7. Measuring cups
8. Can opener
9. Grater (for cheese)
10. Colander or strainer

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?Certainly! If you prefer, ground chicken, beef, or pork can be used in place of ground turkey.
• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?Rotini and penne are excellent selections, but you can utilize any pasta form you prefer or possess at your disposal.
• Is there a way to make this dish spicier?Certainly! Boost the quantity of red pepper flakes or include some hot sauce for an amplified kick.
• Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?Certainly, fresh tomatoes can be utilized. Take approximately 2-3 medium-sized tomatoes and chop them up to stand in for the 14.5-ounce can.
• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?To make this dish gluten-free and still packed with all the delicious flavors, just use gluten-free pasta.
• Can this recipe be made ahead of time?Absolutely! You can make it in advance and warm it up when it’s time to eat. It’s ideal for making lots of meals ahead of time!
• What can I use instead of chicken broth?If needed, you can use vegetable broth or water in place of the chicken broth.

Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta A Comforting Flavor Packed Meal Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can use ground chicken or ground beef instead of ground turkey.
Whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta can be substituted for pasta options to accommodate dietary preferences.
In the absence of olive oil, canola oil or avocado oil can be used.
For a different taste, replace the green bell pepper with red or yellow bell pepper.
If you like another cheese better, you can substitute mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for the cheddar.

Pro Tips

1. Pre-cook the Vegetables: To deepen the flavor of the vegetables, consider roasting the diced green bell pepper and onion in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 400°F before adding them to the skillet. This will enhance their natural sweetness and add complexity to the dish.