Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Ground Turkey Veggie Pasta

Ground Turkey Veggie Pasta

Ground Turkey Veggie Pasta is a quick, nutritious, and flavorful dinner that combines lean ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, featuring a vibrant medley of bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and garlic simmered in a tomato-based sauce with Italian herbs. This recipe is versatile, family-friendly, and offers a delicious balance of comfort and nutrition.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Pasta

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey
  • 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta

Vegetables

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (mixed colors)
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dice the bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic cloves. This ensures even cooking and balanced flavor infusion.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
  3. Brown the ground turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet with the turkey. Cook until fragrant and soft. Stir in the diced bell peppers and zucchini, sautéing until just tender.
  5. Combine sauce and pasta: Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer for several minutes to meld flavors. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick.
  6. Serve and garnish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh, herbal finish.

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetables to maximize flavor and texture.
  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness when combined with the sauce.
  • Season throughout cooking steps for layered, deep flavors.
  • Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
  • Choose lean ground turkey to keep the dish light and healthy.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free pasta is used)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: ground turkey pasta, healthy dinner, lean protein, veggie pasta, quick weeknight meal, gluten-free dinner