As a passionate home cook, I know how hectic weeknights can get. Between work, school activities, and everything in between, finding time to prepare a healthy meal can feel like a daunting task. That’s where my Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet comes in—a delightful dish that’s not only quick to whip up but also packed with nutrition. In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table that the whole family will love.
This recipe features lean ground turkey, which is a fantastic source of protein, and whole wheat pasta, adding fiber to keep everyone satisfied. The vibrant mix of vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. Plus, the one-skillet method means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book! Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or simply need a speedy dinner solution, this Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet is your go-to recipe for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients List
8 ounces whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini): This adds a hearty base to your dish while providing fiber.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the turkey and vegetables, adding healthy fats.
1 pound ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the dish light and nutritious.
1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall taste.
1 bell pepper, diced: Choose your favorite color for a pop of color and crunch.
1 zucchini, diced: Adds moisture and a subtle flavor, making the dish more vibrant.
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Provides a juicy base and acidity to balance the flavors.
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the skillet.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess and richness.
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): A fresh touch that brightens the dish and adds a burst of flavor.
How to Prepare Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once the water is bubbling, add 8 ounces of whole wheat pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. This step is crucial as it ensures your pasta has the perfect texture to hold up in the skillet.
Browning the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 1 pound of ground turkey. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. I find that cooking it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned gives the best flavor. Make sure there are no pink bits left; this ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. The browning process adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly satisfying.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add some color and nutrition! Stir in 1 small diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 diced zucchini. Cook these veggies for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to soften but still retain a bit of crunch. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful array of colors to your skillet.
Combining Ingredients
Now, pour in 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes along with 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This simmering time is essential as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The tomatoes will create a lovely sauce that coats the turkey and veggies, making every bite delicious.
Finishing Touches
Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt perfectly, creating a creamy finish to your dish. Once the cheese is gooey and delicious, remove it from heat, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean ground turkey and whole wheat pasta, this dish is a nutritious choice for the whole family.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of fresh vegetables, Italian seasoning, and melted mozzarella creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
One-Skillet Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Tips for Success
To make your Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet truly shine, here are some pro tips I’ve gathered from my own kitchen adventures:
Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the ground turkey. A good sear adds depth to the flavor, making your dish more delicious.
Season as You Go: Layering flavors is key. Season the turkey while it cooks, and adjust the seasoning of the vegetables as they sauté. This builds a more complex taste.
Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Spinach, mushrooms, or even carrots can add a unique twist to the dish.
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, use them instead of dried. Fresh herbs elevate the dish and add a burst of flavor.
Save Some Pasta Water: If your sauce seems too thick, reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water. Adding a splash can help loosen it up and enhance the sauce’s texture.
With these tips, you’ll create a Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet that’s not just good but great! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a delicious meal, knowing the nutritional content can help you make informed choices. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of the Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet:
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 70mg
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. This Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet is not only a quick meal but also a balanced option that provides a good mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Enjoy your healthy dinner with peace of mind!
FAQ Section
As you dive into making your Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet, you might have a few questions. Here are some common ones I’ve encountered:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While ground turkey is lean and healthy, you can substitute it with ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What vegetables can I add?
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even broccoli. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for firmer veggies to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet is simple and ensures you can enjoy it later. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help maintain its freshness. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze. For the best results, warm it up on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
A quick and healthy weeknight dinner featuring ground turkey and whole wheat pasta.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces whole wheat pasta (penne or rotini)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground turkey
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and stir to combine. Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let it melt for about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot.
Notes
Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Feel free to add other vegetables.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
