Easy Ground Turkey Broccoli Pasta Dinner
This ground turkey pasta broccoli dish is a super-easy, family-pleasing dinner that's ready in less than 30 minutes!
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 box spiral pasta (12-16 oz box)
- 8 ounces broccoli florets (bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 16-20 ounces ground turkey (to substitute leftover cooked turkey, see notes)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli. Drain the broccoli and pasta and return to the pot. Cover and set aside.1 box spiral pasta, 8 ounces broccoli florets
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat. Add the turkey, paprika, garlic, red pepper flakes and salt.16-20 ounces ground turkey, 1 teaspoon paprika, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon salt, 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Break the turkey into pieces, while cooking until browned. (see notes)
- Add the turkey mixture, the remaining olive oil, and the fresh basil to the pasta pot⅓ cup chopped fresh basil
- Mix until combined. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese when serving (or mix in just prior to serving).¼ cup Parmesan cheese
Notes
Prep Tips:
- You can start browning the turkey as soon as you put the pasta into the boiling water to minimize prep time.
- Using jarred minced garlic is a great shortcut for this recipe.
- Using a bag of pre-washed broccoli florets is another great shortcut. You may need to cut any oversized pieces so they cook evenly.
Variation Suggestions:
- To use leftover cooked turkey, chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it after the garlic and spices have heated and become fragrant. Cook just until warmed through.
- Add extra flavor with a sprinkle of ranch dressing mix, Italian seasoning, or seasoned salt (like Lawry’s).
- Toss in cherry tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for added veggies.
- You can swap the basil for fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a simple side salad and warm bread for a complete meal.
- To brighten the flavors, squeeze a fresh lemon over the top before serving.
Storage Info for Leftovers:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a small splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Nutrition
Calories: 436kcal | Carbohydrates: 59g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 44mg | Sodium: 317mg | Potassium: 517mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 520IU | Vitamin C: 34.2mg | Calcium: 89mg | Iron: 2mg
