Turkey spaghetti is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef spaghetti. This dish is packed with flavor, featuring lean ground turkey, savory tomato sauce, and a perfect blend of spices. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Spaghetti
Turkey spaghetti is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s lower in fat compared to beef spaghetti and is rich in protein. The combination of tender turkey, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti makes it a family favorite. Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, ensuring the spaghetti is well-coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Divide the spaghetti among plates, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh basil.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this turkey spaghetti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for extra flavor.
How to Store Turkey Spaghetti
Store any leftover turkey spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Additional Tips: Turkey Spaghetti
- Substitutions: You can substitute ground chicken for the turkey if you prefer.
- Vegetables: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste if you like a spicier dish.
Turkey Spaghetti Recipe
Course: MainCuisine: Italian, AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes30
minutes450
kcalIngredients
1 lb ground turkey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
12 oz spaghetti
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Fresh basil (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until soft.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to combine.
- Serve with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
