Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Ground Turkey Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce and Parmesan Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 11 reviews

This easy weeknight Ground Turkey Pasta combines lean ground turkey, tender pasta shells, and a rich, savory tomato sauce in 30 minutes or less. It’s perfect for families and customizable with your favorite vegetables and spices, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz. medium shell pasta or pasta of choice

Protein

  • 1 lb. (16 oz.) ground turkey

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 large red bell pepper, diced small
  • 4 oz. white mushrooms, thinly sliced or diced small
  • 1/2 large white onion, diced

Seasonings and Spices

  • 1 tsp. salt (taste and add more as desired)
  • 1/2 tsp. pepper
  • 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
  • 2 Tbsp. all purpose flour

Liquids and Dairy

  • 3 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 (15oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Garnish

  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the medium shell pasta according to package directions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Cook Ground Turkey: In a Dutch oven or wide stock pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, then drain any excess fat or liquid. Transfer turkey to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Sauté Vegetables and Thicken Sauce: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan. Sauté minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, mushrooms, and onions with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Whisk in the all-purpose flour to combine and create a roux.
  4. Add Broth and Tomato Sauce: Slowly pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Combine Turkey and Sauce: Add the cooked ground turkey back into the pan, stirring to incorporate it into the sauce.
  6. Add Pasta, Cream, and Cheese: Stir in the cooked pasta shells, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  7. Adjust Seasoning and Simmer: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as desired. Although the sauce may seem thin initially, continue to simmer and stir occasionally until it thickens to a creamy consistency. For a richer sauce, add more heavy cream if desired.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the pasta with fresh basil and additional Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Notes

  • Additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, fennel seed, red pepper chili flakes, dried oregano, or a pinch of cayenne can be added for extra flavor.
  • You may substitute shell pasta with other shapes like rotini, penne, or even cheese tortellini, and add spinach for variation.
  • If using more pasta (e.g., 16 oz. box), increase the amount of heavy cream or tomato sauce accordingly to maintain sauce consistency.
  • To make a pasta bake version: prepare as directed, place in an oven-safe dish or the Dutch oven, top with Parmesan or shredded mozzarella, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/ground-turkey-pasta-with-tomato-cream-sauce-and-parmesan-recipe/