Creamy Ground Turkey Spinach Pasta Recipe You’ll Love

When you want a comforting yet healthy dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this creamy ground turkey spinach pasta is the perfect answer. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with protein and veggies, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

this Recipe

You’ll love how creamy the sauce gets without needing heavy cream, and how the fresh spinach adds a burst of color and nutrition to every bite. This recipe is simple but impressive enough to serve to company or enjoy any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with lean ground turkey for a healthier protein boost.
• Incorporates fresh spinach to add vitamins and minerals effortlessly.
• Rich and creamy sauce without heavy cream thanks to a clever ingredient swap.
• Quick and easy stovetop method perfect for weeknight meals.
• Comforting pasta dish that satisfies all ages and tastes.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your creamy ground turkey spinach pasta come together beautifully.

• 12 ounces penne pasta or your favorite shape
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 420 per serving

How to Make Creamy Ground Turkey Spinach Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until no longer pink, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until aromatic. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, letting it reduce slightly, about 3 minutes.
5. Lower the heat to medium, then stir in the chopped spinach, allowing it to wilt down, about 2 minutes.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the Greek yogurt and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach desired consistency.
7. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet and combine thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use lean ground turkey to keep the dish light but still flavorful.
• Don’t overcook the spinach; it should just wilt to retain its bright color.
• Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness without diluting flavor.
• Greek yogurt adds creaminess with less fat—avoid using sour cream for a tangier taste.
• Feel free to swap penne for rigatoni or fusilli for a different pasta texture.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover creamy ground turkey spinach pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave.

You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat carefully to preserve the creamy texture without separating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Yes, ground chicken works well as a substitute and will provide similar flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly and season well.

Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for heavy cream?

Absolutely. Greek yogurt gives the sauce creaminess with less fat and calories, making the recipe lighter while still maintaining a rich texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this pasta?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes would complement the flavors nicely. Add them when you sauté the onions for best results.

What pasta types work best for this recipe?

Penne, rigatoni, and fusilli are ideal because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta you have on hand.