Creamy Ground Turkey Spinach Pasta

Creamy Ground Turkey and Spinach Skillet Pasta comes together in a single pan and delivers that cozy, cheesy comfort we all crave on a busy weeknight This is my secret weapon when everyone is hungry but I refuse to compromise on flavor A quickcooking dinner that feels indulgent but is packed with protein and goodness

This recipe became my midweek lifesaver last year when I juggled remote work with a toddler at my feet It never fails to get cleaned plates and happy faces and now my partner requests it every Thursday

Ingredients

• Ground turkey: Choose lean for lighter flavor or a mix for a richer taste Always check for fresh pink turkey and avoid any with off smells
• Small pasta shapes: Like shells or penne which catch and hold the creamy sauce Choose bronzecut if possible for better texture
• Fresh baby spinach: Wilts quickly and adds color and nutrition Look for crisp green leaves that are not slimy or yellowed
• Garlic: Fresh cloves give the best aroma and flavor Avoid preminced if you can
• Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and depth Choose firm heavy onions with papery skins
• Lowsodium chicken broth: Creates the creamy base without overpowering Choose one with simple ingredients and no artificial colors
• Half and half or whole milk: Gives the sauce creaminess and silkiness Use whichever you have on hand
• Shredded mozzarella and parmesan: Together provide gooey stretchy cheese and nutty flavor Always shred your own cheese for best melt and avoid preshredded which may not melt as well
• Olive oil: For sautéing and a touch of richness Look for extra virgin with a fresh grassy aroma
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning every layer Taste as you go to prevent overseasoning

Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Take out all ingredients and measure them ahead to streamline cooking Chop onion mince garlic and have cheese ready

Sauté Onions and Garlic:

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat Add chopped onion and cook slowly for five to eight minutes until translucent and golden This helps build the flavor base Add minced garlic and stir constantly for one full minute until fragrance fills your kitchen

Brown the Ground Turkey:

Add ground turkey to the skillet and break up with a spatula Cook over medium heat for about five to seven minutes until turkey is no longer pink and any released moisture has evaporated Season well with salt and pepper

Add Pasta and Broth:

Pour dry pasta into the skillet right over the browned turkey Stir so the pasta coats in the flavorful oil and pan juices Pour in chicken broth ensuring most pasta is just covered Increase heat to bring to a light boil then reduce to a steady simmer Cover the pan and cook according to package instructions stirring once or twice Once pasta is nearly tender and most broth is absorbed uncover to let excess liquid evaporate

Wilt Spinach and Add Dairy:

Stir in fresh baby spinach The heat will quickly wilt it down Pour in half and half or milk Stir gently to create a creamy sauce simmering for two to three minutes

Add Cheese and Finish:

Reduce the heat to low Sprinkle mozzarella and grated parmesan over everything Stir gently until cheese melts and everything is creamy Taste and season again if needed Let sit off the heat for a few minutes before serving so sauce thickens up

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My favorite thing here is the way spinach sneaks in to boost flavor and nutrition without overpowering the creamy cheesy profile This dish even convinced my most skeptical family member to love spinach and now everyone scoops seconds

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep tightly covered in the fridge for three days Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess and prevent pasta from drying out This pasta freezes well Portion into single servings and thaw overnight in the fridge for speedy lunches

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey for chicken or ground beef if desired Use any small pasta shape that catches sauce even gluten free works well Try kale instead of spinach just chop it smaller and add a couple minutes earlier to soften

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with extra parmesan and a grind of black pepper A fresh green salad or roasted broccoli rounds out the meal nicely For a family meal let everyone garnish their bowls with extra cheese or red pepper flakes

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This creamy skillet pasta is the fast and cozy dinner your week needs Try it with different greens and extra cheese for a new favorite go-to meal

Answers to Recipe Questions

→ What type of pasta works best for this skillet?

Short pastas like penne, rotini, or fusilli hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly in the skillet.

→ Can I substitute another green for spinach?

Yes, kale or Swiss chard make great alternatives. Adjust cooking time if greens are heartier.

→ How do I achieve a creamy texture without heavy cream?

Use whole milk, half-and-half, or blend cream cheese into the sauce for a silky finish.

→ How can I add more flavor to the turkey?

Sauté the turkey with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs. Deglaze with a splash of broth or wine for richness.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

This skillet keeps well for up to 3 days refrigerated. Freezing can alter the sauce's texture but is possible if well sealed.