One Pot Turkey Pasta: Easy Weeknight Dinner in 30 Minutes!

One pot turkey pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort food. This incredibly easy recipe delivers a flavorful and satisfying meal, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Remember those days when Grandma whipped up a feast from seemingly nothing? This one pot turkey pasta recipe channels that same magic, turning pantry staples into a dish your family will adore.

This recipe was born out of a particularly busy week. I craved something comforting but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s when I realized the potential of a one pot pasta, packed with lean turkey and vibrant veggies. So I went to work, tinkering with seasonings and pasta shapes until I got it perfect.

Why You Will Love This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

This one pot turkey pasta recipe is a game changer because it’s ready in under 30 minutes. It is incredibly comforting, a hug in a bowl. The flavors are perfectly balanced, with savory turkey, tender pasta, and a creamy tomato sauce. You will not spend all night cleaning up dishes. Everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and effort. I promise, this dish will become your go to week night dinner or quick weekend comfort food.

Ingredients Needed for This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite short shape)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. 2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. 3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until pasta is cooked through and liquid is absorbed. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. 5. Stir in frozen peas and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another minute or two until peas are heated through and cheese is melted.
6. 6. Serve immediately and enjoy such an easy, healthy meal.

How to Serve This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

Serve this delicious one pot turkey pasta as a complete meal on its own. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A simple side salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta. Think about adding some roasted vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus.

How to Store This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftover pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Tips to Make This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground turkey with crumbled plant based meat alternatives. To make it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you do not have crushed tomatoes, substitute them with tomato sauce or diced tomatoes. For a creamier sauce, stir in a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese at the end. Be sure to add a cup or more of chopped vegetables; carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Helpful Notes for This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

The type of pasta you use affects the cooking time, so check the package instructions and adjust accordingly. Chicken broth is the best liquid for this recipe, but vegetable broth works too. Feel free to use different herbs and spices for your own personal flare.

Variation of This one pot turkey pasta Recipe

For a richer flavor, brown the turkey in butter or olive oil before adding the other ingredients. Add a splash of white wine to the pot after browning the turkey for extra depth of flavor. In the fall, try adding pumpkin puree for a delicious seasonal twist. In the summer, try adding fresh basil. You can also add different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone. To add to the fun, you could even make One Pot Shrimp Pasta or One Pot Salmon Pasta.

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy and delicious recipes!

Print