tupikechakula
Looking for a quick, cheesy, and comforting pasta dinner for two? This Cheesy Ground Turkey Penne Pasta recipe features juicy ground turkey, sweet tomatoes, sautéed onions and garlic, fresh basil, and parmesan cheese for a flavor-packed meal ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy date nights!
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 150g penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 250g ground turkey
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn
- Optional: 2–3 tbsp pasta water for loosening the sauce
👩🏽🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Penne
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente (about 9–11 minutes). Reserve 2–3 tablespoons of pasta water before draining.
2. Sauté the Onion & Garlic
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Turkey
Add ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Season with paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper.
4. Add Tomatoes and Simmer
Stir in the chopped tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, until the tomatoes break down into a rustic sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Cheesy Finish
Lower the heat and stir in the grated parmesan until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Combine and Garnish
Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly. Stir in the torn basil just before serving. Top with extra parmesan if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy penne pasta hot with a side salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Perfect with a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
🔁 Variations & Tips
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or plant-based mince for a vegetarian twist.
- Use cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a little heat.
