Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe

Introduction

This Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta is a wholesome, one-pan meal that combines lean protein with tender broccoli and comforting pasta. It’s easy to prepare and comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

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. Add the ground turkey, breaking it into large chunks. Cook until it’s mostly browned, about 5 minutes, keeping in mind the turkey will continue to break down as it cooks.
2. Step 2: Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Step 5: Add the medium shell pasta to the skillet, stirring to combine. The pasta should be just covered by the broth. Cook uncovered until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes or according to package directions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid evaporates before the pasta is done, add a bit more water or broth.
6. Step 6: Once the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy, coating the pasta and turkey evenly.

Tips & Variations

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
• Swap the ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra brightness.
• For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half with the cheese and butter.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute medium shell pasta with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing may affect the texture of the broccoli and pasta, so it’s not recommended for freezer storage.

Broccoli Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 84 reviews

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

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Description

A comforting and nutritious one-pan meal featuring ground turkey, tender broccoli florets, and al dente pasta cooked together in savory chicken broth, finished with a creamy Parmesan butter sauce. This easy skillet recipe balances protein and vegetables for a satisfying dinner ready in about 30 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein & Vegetables

• 1 pound Ground Turkey
• ½ Cup Yellow Onion, diced
• 4 cloves Garlic, minced
• 3 Cups Broccoli Florets

Liquids & Dairy

• 4 Cups Chicken Broth
• ⅔ Cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
• 4 Tablespoons Butter

Pantry Staples & Seasonings

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• 8 ounces Medium Shell Pasta

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Instructions

1. Brown the Turkey: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add ground turkey in chunks and cook for about 5 minutes until mostly browned. The turkey will continue to break apart as you stir during cooking.
2. Sauté Onion: Add diced yellow onion to the skillet with the turkey. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
3. Add Garlic & Seasonings: Stir in minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.
4. Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in chicken broth and add the broccoli florets. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Cook Pasta: Add the medium shell pasta to the simmering broth, ensuring the pasta is just barely submerged. Cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes or according to package instructions, stirring occasionally. If the liquid evaporates before the pasta is done, add more water or broth as needed.
6. Finish with Cheese and Butter: Once the pasta is al dente and cooked through, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter. Mix until melted and combined, creating a creamy sauce coating the pasta and vegetables.

Notes

• Adjust liquid level if pasta absorbs too quickly; add broth or water as needed for even cooking.
• Using ground turkey breast can reduce fat content if preferred.
• Substitute gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes according to taste.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

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