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Easy Turkish Pasta with Ground Turkey for a Cozy Dinner

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550
This flavorful and comforting Turkish-inspired pasta dish combines ground turkey, rich tomato flavors, and aromatic spices for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli) (Feel free to substitute with any similar pasta type.)

Ground Meat

  • 1 lb ground turkey (Can be swapped with ground beef if desired.)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (Consider fresh shallots or leeks for variation.)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (Garlic powder can work in a pinch.)

Canned & Condiments

  • 14 oz crushed tomatoes (Diced or fresh tomatoes can be used instead.)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (Feel free to use prepared sauce if you're short on time.)
  • 1 tsp paprika (Smoked paprika can elevate the flavors further.)
  • 0.5 tsp ground cumin (Omit or replace with coriander based on your palate.)
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (Optional, adjust according to your spice preference.)
  • to taste Salt and black pepper (Opt for Himalayan salt or sea salt for added depth.)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (Can substitute with canola oil or butter if needed.)

Dairy & Herbs

  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt (Substitute with sour cream or omit for a dairy-free option.)
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (Cilantro can work too, or skip if desired.)

Instructions 

  • Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  • Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then, add ground turkey and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
  • Mix cooked pasta into the sauce. Remove from heat and stir in Greek yogurt. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or more yogurt. Adjust spice levels to taste.
Calories: 550kcal
Cost: $12
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Turkish
Keyword: easy, ground turkey, pasta