Try this one pan pasta and turkey dish that is a comfort food while being healthy for you. You can always leave out the cheese if …
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Easy Pasta & Turkey Dinner | Rockin Robin Cooks
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Easy Pasta & Turkey Dinner from Rockin Robin Cooks. This recipe combines lean ground turkey with flavorful pasta and a variety of vegetables, making it a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Ingredients
To get started, here’s what you’ll need:
- Pasta: 8 ounces of your favorite type (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti work well)
- Ground Turkey: 1 pound, lean
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Bell Peppers: 1, diced (use any color)
- Zucchini: 1 medium, diced
- Tomato Sauce: 1 can (15 ounces)
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon (or to taste)
- Salt & Pepper: to taste
- Parmesan Cheese: for garnish (optional)
- Fresh Basil: for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Turkey and Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and the onion is translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
- Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks (about 6-8 minutes).
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Sauce
- Stir in the diced bell peppers and zucchini. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, and sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly with the turkey and sauce mixture.
- Serve immediately, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and basil, if desired.
Why This Recipe Works
This Easy Pasta & Turkey Dinner not only packs a flavorful punch but also provides a helpful balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. Ground turkey is a fantastic lean protein alternative, and incorporating a medley of vegetables enhances both the nutritional content and visual appeal of the dish.
Additional variations can include adding spinach or kale for extra greens, swapping out the tomato sauce for pesto, or even tossing in some olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Final Thoughts
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in about 30 minutes. It’s an excellent option for meal prep too—just make a double batch and refrigerate or freeze leftovers for future meals. Rockin Robin’s Easy Pasta & Turkey Dinner is sure to become a household favorite, bringing smiles to the dinner table without the fuss.
Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is a sure-fire way to impress with minimal effort. Enjoy your cooking and rock on with this delicious meal!
