Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare on a weeknight. Packed with tender turkey, fresh broccoli, and a creamy parmesan sauce, it’s a comforting dish the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 pound Ground Turkey
• ½ Cup Yellow Onion, diced
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• 4 Cups Chicken Broth
• 3 Cups Broccoli Florets
• 8 ounces Medium Shell Pasta
• ⅔ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 4 Tablespoons Butter

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the ground turkey, breaking it into large chunks. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is almost browned, about 5 minutes. Keep in mind the pieces will shrink as it cooks.
2. Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring continuously for 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Step 5: Add the medium shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. The pasta should be just barely submerged in the broth. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes or according to package directions. If the liquid evaporates before the pasta is done, add more water or broth as needed.
6. Step 6: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated parmesan cheese and butter until melted, creating a creamy sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine when adding the chicken broth and let it reduce slightly before adding broccoli.
• Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
• Use a different green vegetable like spinach or asparagus if you don’t have broccoli on hand.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, sprinkle in a teaspoon of flour with the garlic and cook briefly to create a roux before adding the broth.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any similar-sized pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle can be used. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the pasta and broccoli may change slightly. For best results, freeze before adding the parmesan and butter, then add fresh when reheating.

Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe

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5 from 123 reviews

A hearty and healthy one-pan Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta recipe that combines lean ground turkey, fresh broccoli florets, and tender shell pasta simmered in flavorful chicken broth, finished with a creamy parmesan butter sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner packed with protein and vegetables.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 pound Ground Turkey
• ½ Cup Yellow Onion, diced
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• 4 Cups Chicken Broth
• 3 Cups Broccoli Florets
• 8 ounces Medium Shell Pasta
• ⅔ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 4 Tablespoons Butter

Instructions

1. Cook the turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it into large chunks. Cook for about 5 minutes until the turkey is almost browned; it will continue to break down as it cooks.
2. Sauté the onion: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes until the onion softens.
3. Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring continuously until the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add broth and broccoli: Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Cook the pasta: Add the medium shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. The pasta should be just barely submerged in the broth. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if the liquid evaporates before the pasta is cooked.
6. Finish with cheese and butter: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated parmesan cheese and butter. Mix until melted and combined into a creamy sauce. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust liquid amount based on the type of pasta used; some pasta may require more broth or water for cooking.
• Ground turkey will shrink and break apart during cooking, so don’t worry if pieces get smaller.
• Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and creaminess.
• For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
• Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: broccoli ground turkey pasta, healthy pasta recipe, one pan turkey pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, creamy pasta