There’s nothing more satisfying than a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, and this Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet is just that. Transform weeknight dinners with this one-pan ground turkey pasta skillet—loaded with veggies and cheesy goodness! It’s a friendly mashup of lean ground turkey, perfectly cooked penne pasta, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato broth, all finished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh basil. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling homework and soccer practice or someone craving a cozy, family-style meal, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s beginner-friendly, cooks up in about 25 minutes, and only needs 10 minutes of prep time. At roughly 660 calories per serving, it strikes the right balance between hearty and healthy, making it an ideal pick for lunch or dinner.
I first stumbled upon this skillet sensation on a hectic Tuesday evening when my fridge held nothing but a lonely bell pepper and a half-empty can of diced tomatoes. With a bit of improvisation and a splash of creativity, I whipped up this colorful crowd-pleaser that had the whole family sneaking second servings before the plates even hit the table. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility—you can swap in rotini or farfalle, dial up the spice with extra red pepper flakes, or sneak in a dollop of cream cheese for an ultra-creamy twist. It’s truly a healthy pasta recipe that doesn’t feel like one, perfect for when you want comfort without the guilt. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup and maximal flavor. So tie on your apron, crank up your favorite playlist, and let’s dive into this easy dinner recipe that’s bound to become your new go-to family meal.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND TURKEY PASTA SKILLET
Before you dive into this one-pan wonder, let’s break down the key players that turn simple kitchen staples into a bursting-with-flavor meal you’ll crave again and again.
- Ground Turkey
A lean protein powerhouse that soaks up all the surrounding flavors without weighing you down. It browns quickly and provides a tender, satisfying base for the sauce to cling to.
- Penne Pasta
The perfect pasta shape for capturing bits of sauce in each tube. Its sturdy texture holds up well in a skillet and ensures every bite is beautifully coated.
- Olive Oil
The unsung hero that helps brown the turkey and soften the veggies, adding a subtle fruity richness that ties everything together.
- Onion
Provides a sweet and savory foundation, releasing natural sugars as it cooks down and creating depth in every mouthful.
- Garlic
A punchy flavor booster that awakens the senses—just a couple of cloves infuse the dish with warm, aromatic notes.
- Bell Pepper
Adds vibrant color, a slight crunch, and a hint of sweetness. Red or yellow varieties work best for their natural sugars and visual appeal.
- Diced Tomatoes
Offer juicy bursts of tang and texture, forming the heart of the rich tomato broth that brings the skillet to life.
- Chicken Broth
Thins out the tomato base just enough to create a silky sauce and infuses extra savory depth.
- Italian Seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that elevates the overall flavor profile with classic Mediterranean vibes.
- Paprika
Adds warmth and a hint of smokiness, boosting the color and giving a mild depth that complements the turkey beautifully.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
For those who crave a bit of heat, these flakes deliver a gentle kick that livens up each bite.
- Salt and Pepper
Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Parmesan Cheese
A nutty, salty finish that melts into the pasta for that irresistibly creamy, cheesy touch.
- Fresh Basil (optional)
A bright, peppery garnish that adds a final flourish of color and freshness to every plate.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND TURKEY PASTA SKILLET
Let’s roll up our sleeves and transform these ingredients into a hearty, comforting skillet meal. Follow these detailed steps to ensure each element cooks perfectly and every flavor shines through.
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with the sauce.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, ensuring the entire pan is coated and shimmering before adding any ingredients.
3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart and brown it evenly, cooking until it’s no longer pink—about 6–7 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper, then sauté for another 3–4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent and the peppers to soften without losing their pop of color.
5. Combine the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper, then stir everything together until it’s evenly mixed.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reducing the heat slightly. Let it cook for about 5 minutes so all the flavors can meld into a cohesive sauce.
7. Fold in the cooked pasta, stirring thoroughly to ensure each piece of penne is coated in that luscious tomato-turkey sauce.
8. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and stir again, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce for extra creaminess.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh basil for a burst of herbal brightness just before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND TURKEY PASTA SKILLET
Once you’ve created this flavorful one-pan masterpiece, the way you present and pair it can elevate your meal to a restaurant-quality experience. Below are a few ideas to inspire your next dinner gathering or cozy family night.
- Garlic-Parmesan Bread
Serve with slices of crusty bread brushed with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Toast under the broiler until golden for an irresistible side that soaks up every drop of sauce.
- Crisp Caesar Salad
A refreshing bed of crisp romaine lettuce, shaved Parmesan, and creamy Caesar dressing cuts through the richness of the skillet and adds a satisfying crunch.
- Grilled Vegetables
Fire up the grill or oven-roast zucchini, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt to complement the skillet’s savory flavors.
- Lemon-Fresh Garnish
Add extra brightness by zesting a lemon directly over the plated pasta. The citrus oils bring out the sweetness of the tomatoes and lift the entire dish.
HOW TO STORE GROUND TURKEY PASTA SKILLET
This skillet meal is just as delightful reheated, so having a plan for storing leftovers is essential. Proper storage not only preserves freshness but also ensures you can enjoy those flavorful bites for days to come.
- Refrigerator Storage
Transfer any cooled leftovers into an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the pasta from drying out and maintains the sauce’s creaminess.
- Reheating on the Stove
To revive the dish, return it to a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water. Stir gently until heated through, adding moisture back into the sauce.
- Microwave Method
Place a single portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 45-second intervals, stirring in between for even warming.
- Freezer-Friendly Option
If you want to extend its life, freeze cooled servings in resealable freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. It will keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
CONCLUSION
There you have it—a complete guide to making, serving, and storing the ultimate Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet. From the first sizzle of lean turkey in olive oil to the final sprinkling of fresh basil, this one-pan wonder transforms weeknight dinners into a cozy, flavorful event the whole family will love. You’ve learned about each ingredient’s role, followed step-by-step cooking instructions, and discovered fun serving ideas that turn a simple skillet into a memorable meal. Plus, with savvy storage tips, you can savor the leftovers without sacrificing taste or texture.
Feel free to print this article and save it for those busy nights when you need a reliable, delicious meal idea. You’ll also find a FAQ below to answer any lingering questions about substitutions, cooking times, or dietary tweaks. If you give this skillet a whirl, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions. Your feedback helps me, and fellow home cooks, refine this recipe and make weeknight dinners even more enjoyable. Happy cooking!
Ground Turkey Pasta Skillet
Description
A hearty skillet meal melding lean ground turkey, al dente penne, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato broth, all finished with Parmesan and fresh basil for a satisfyingly cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
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Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes.
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Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
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Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir to incorporate.
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Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Note
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as rotini, farfalle, or rigatoni.
- For extra creaminess, add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or cream cheese to the skillet after adding the chicken broth.
- If you like a spicier kick, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce.
