Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes until the onion softens.
- 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.
- Add broth and broccoli: Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 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.
- 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