There’s something comforting about a big plate of spaghetti, especially when it’s made with love and a few healthier tweaks. My grandmother, Helen, was always looking for ways to make our favorite comfort foods a bit more nutritious, and this ground turkey spaghetti is a perfect example of her creativity in the kitchen. With lean ground turkey, a rich tomato sauce, and your favorite pasta, this recipe is not only delicious but also guilt-free. Let’s dive into this easy, family-friendly meal.
Why Ground Turkey is a Healthy Choice
If you’re looking to reduce red meat consumption or are simply after a lighter meal, using ground turkey in spaghetti is an excellent option. Ground turkey is leaner than beef, with lower fat content and fewer calories, making it a healthier protein choice without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients for Ground Turkey Spaghetti
This recipe is straightforward and features ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean or higher)
- 12 oz spaghetti (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional for garnish)
This simple combination of ingredients makes for a delicious meal. You can also customize the spaghetti sauce to your liking by adding extra vegetables or herbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Turkey Spaghetti
1. Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by filling a large pot with water, season it with salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, but reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
3. Brown the Ground Turkey
Push the onions and garlic to the sides of the skillet, then add the ground turkey to the center. Cook the turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Herbs
Once the ground turkey is browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, giving the flavors time to blend and deepen. If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out with the reserved pasta water.
5. Combine and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
Recipe Variations and Tips
If you’re looking to switch things up or want to make this dish even more nutrient-dense, here are a few variations:
- Add vegetables: You can boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce. Sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and texture.
- Use whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat spaghetti adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor, making this dish even healthier.
- Spicy turkey spaghetti: If you like a little kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Gluten-free option: Simply swap out regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free pasta for a dish that’s just as tasty but gluten-free.
Storage and Leftovers
One of the best things about spaghetti is that it makes great leftovers. Store any leftover turkey spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen up the sauce if needed.
You can also freeze the turkey spaghetti sauce (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove while you cook fresh pasta.
Why Ground Turkey Spaghetti is a Smart Choice
This ground turkey spaghetti recipe isn’t just tasty—it also offers several great reasons to add it to your meal rotation:
Lean Protein: Ground turkey provides a good source of lean protein, supporting muscle repair and energy, while containing less saturated fat compared to ground beef.
Lighter Alternative: Swapping out beef for ground turkey makes this dish lighter without compromising on flavor, perfect for those looking for a satisfying yet less heavy option.
Extra Fiber: Using whole wheat pasta adds an extra boost of fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer.
With these features, this comforting dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and mindful eating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe with ground chicken?
Yes, you can easily swap ground turkey for ground chicken. Ground chicken is also lean and works well in pasta dishes.
2. What’s the best pasta to use?
Feel free to choose your preferred type of pasta for this dish. Traditional spaghetti, whole wheat pasta, or gluten-free noodles all work well.Be sure to cook the pasta according to the instructions provided on the packaging.
3. Can I add cheese to the sauce?
Absolutely! If you want a creamier sauce, you can stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or Romano cheese while the sauce is simmering. For a richer option, you could even add a splash of heavy cream.
Grandma’s Ground Turkey Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey 93% lean or higher
- 12 oz spaghetti whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil optional for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Spaghetti
- Begin by filling a large pot with water, season it with salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, but reserve 1 cup of the pasta water for later.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
Brown the Ground Turkey
- Push the onions and garlic to the sides of the skillet, then add the ground turkey to the center. Cook the turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the Tomatoes and Herbs
- Once the ground turkey is browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, giving the flavors time to blend and deepen. If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out with the reserved pasta water.
Combine and Serve
- Once the sauce has thickened, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated in the sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the spaghetti hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil for garnish.
Notes
- Add vegetables: You can boost the nutritional value by adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce. Sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and texture.
- Use whole wheat pasta: Whole wheat spaghetti adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor, making this dish even healthier.
- Spicy turkey spaghetti: If you like a little kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
A Lighter Take on a Classic Dish
Ground turkey spaghetti is a healthier alternative to the classic beef version, but it doesn’t skimp on flavor. This recipe is simple, packed with nutrients, and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, ground turkey spaghetti is a dish everyone will love.
With the added health benefits and ease of preparation, this turkey spaghetti will quickly become a favorite in your household. So, the next time you’re craving comfort food, give this lighter, delicious twist on a classic spaghetti dish a try!
