There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a pasta dish bubbling away on the stove, is there? This Gordon Ramsay-inspired Ground Turkey Pasta recipe feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening. Not only is it finger-licking good, but it also packs a healthy punch! I remember the first time I made it; it was a spontaneous weeknight dinner that turned into a much-requested family favorite. Let’s dive deep into this recipe, and I’ll share all the insights that will make this dish your next go-to!
Why you’ll love this recipe
Imagine sitting down at the dinner table, a satisfying bowl of creamy, cheesy pasta in front of you, the delicious flavors enticing everyone to dig in. This recipe is an absolute game-changer! Ground turkey is the unsung hero of the protein world: it’s lean, flavorful, and super versatile. The combination of smoky tomato sauce, savory chicken broth, and that oh-so-smooth half-and-half creates a rich sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a little bit of joy in every bite.
Not to mention, this dish is quick! In about 30 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal on the table that feels anything but rushed. You can keep this recipe in your back pocket for those busy nights when you want to impress but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a big crowd or just yourself, it’s easy to adapt, and the leftovers make for delightful next-day lunches.
Gather these ingredients
Before we embark on this culinary journey, let’s assemble our trusted companions for this savory adventure:
- 340g penne pasta: You can use any pasta you adore—rigatoni, fusilli, even spaghetti if that’s your jam!
- 30ml olive oil: This golden liquid will be your cooking ally, bringing a rich depth of flavor.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced: The aromatic backbone of this dish! It adds sweetness that beautifully complements the savory turkey.
- 450g ground turkey: Low in fat, high in protein—this is your main star! Freshly ground turkey is preferred, but the pre-packaged stuff works too.
- 10g salt, divided: We’ll sprinkle this throughout the cooking process to enhance the flavors.
- 0.5g black pepper: A little kick to keep things interesting.
- 1g Italian seasoning: A sprinkle of dried herbs for that classic Italian touch.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: Because let’s be real, you can never have enough garlic!
- 16g all-purpose flour: This little helper will thicken our sauce into perfection.
- 480ml low-sodium chicken broth: Store-bought or homemade, it adds a rich umami component to the sauce.
- 425g can of tomato sauce: This is where the flavor really shines through.
- 240ml half-and-half: For creaminess that takes this dish to the next level. You can swap with whole milk or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
- 115g shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty goodness you’ll want to dive into.
- 115g shredded cheddar cheese: A sharp twist that complements the mozzarella beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, to garnish: A pop of freshness and color that brightens everything up.
- Red chili flakes, to garnish (optional): For those who like a little heat; it’s entirely optional but oh-so-delicious!
How this recipe comes together
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s how you’re going to create this masterpiece:
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Cook the pasta: In a big pot, bring salted water to a boil. Toss in the penne and cook it just a minute or two less than the package suggests—trust me, we want it al dente. Reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining the rest.
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Sauté the onions: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, sautéing until they turn translucent and golden, around 5 minutes.
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Brown the turkey: Increase the heat slightly and add the ground turkey to the onions. Sprinkle in a bit of salt and pepper, and let it brown. You want those lovely bits sticking to the pan—flavor town, here we come! Add the minced garlic just before the turkey is fully cooked; we want it fragrant but not burnt.
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Thicken the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the turkey mixture and stir for about a minute. This is your way of turning it into a sauce; it’s like magic!
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Add the liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring well to combine. Let it bubble away for about 5-10 minutes, letting those flavors blend beautifully.
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Combine everything: Stir in the cooked pasta and half-and-half, mixing gently to coat each piece. If it looks a bit thick, use that reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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Cheesy goodness: Fold in half of the mozzarella and cheddar, ensuring it’s all melty and delicious. Top the dish with the remaining cheese, cover the skillet, and let it sit for just a few minutes until the cheese is gooey.
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Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and chili flakes (if using). Serve hot and watch your loved ones dive in with delight!
Best way to enjoy it
This pasta is a glorious ensemble all on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread for that heavenly dipping experience. A nice glass of red wine would pair wonderfully with the richness of the dish—just imagine that perfect bite! You can throw in some roasted vegetables as well for a nutrient boost.
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (a rare feat!), don’t fret. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to three months—just be sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. When it’s time to revive your pasta, warm it gently on the stove with a splash of water or leftover broth to keep it creamy and delicious.
Pro chef tips
Here are some insider tips to make your experience even better:
- Don’t rush: Allow the turkey to brown properly. The caramelization is where some of the best flavors come through.
- Herb it up: Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano during the last moments of cooking for an aromatic boost.
- Shortcuts: If you’re pressed for time, pre-cooked chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fabulous substitute for ground turkey.
- Dietary swaps: For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or chickpeas in place of the turkey. You won’t miss the meat at all!
Creative Twists
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Want to spice things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Veggie lovers: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted zucchini for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spicy take: Incorporate diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
- Cheese swap: Experiment with different cheeses; gouda or pepper jack can bring a unique twist!
- Regional flair: How about a Southwest theme? Use taco seasoning instead of Italian herbs, black beans for protein, and serve with avocados.
Common questions
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Can I use different pasta types?
Absolutely! Any pasta you love will work just fine. -
What’s the prep time?
From start to finish, expect about 30-35 minutes for this dish. -
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the turkey mixture earlier in the day and reheat before mixing with pasta and other ingredients. -
Can I substitute ground turkey?
Definitely! Ground chicken, beef, or even crumbled tofu can be great alternatives. -
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
You bet! Just make sure to store it properly to preserve its creamy texture.
Make this recipe your own; add your own little quirks and flavors, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Embrace the laughter and love in the kitchen, and remember, cooking is all about joy and creativity. So roll up your sleeves and let’s get to it—your pasta paradise is waiting!
Gordon Ramsay Ground Turkey Pasta Recipe
Description
This Gordon Ramsay-inspired Ground Turkey Pasta combines creamy half-and-half, smoky tomato sauce, and lean ground turkey for a comforting dish that is quick to prepare and healthy.Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Cooking Steps
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Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne as per package instructions, but one minute less. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. -
Sauté the Onions
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onions until translucent and golden, about 5 minutes. -
Brown the Turkey
Add ground turkey and some salt and pepper to the onions, cooking until browned. Add minced garlic just before turkey is done. -
Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the turkey mixture and stir for about a minute until it thickens. -
Add the Liquids
Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, and stir to combine. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes. -
Combine Everything
Stir in the cooked pasta and half-and-half, mixing gently. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency if needed. -
Cheesy Goodness
Fold in half of the mozzarella and cheddar. Top with the remaining cheese and cover the skillet until it melts. -
Garnish and Serve
Finish with parsley and red chili flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Cholesterol 100mg34%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Potassium 600mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 40g80%
- Vitamin A 15 IU
- Vitamin C 10 mg
- Calcium 20 mg
- Iron 10 mg
- Vitamin D 0 IU
- Vitamin E 0 IU
- Vitamin K 0 mcg
- Thiamin 5 mg
- Riboflavin 10 mg
- Niacin 15 mg
- Vitamin B6 5 mg
- Folate 5 mcg
- Vitamin B12 5 mcg
- Biotin 0 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 0 mg
- Phosphorus 20 mg
- Iodine 0 mcg
- Magnesium 10 mg
- Zinc 10 mg
- Selenium 0 mcg
- Copper 0 mg
- Manganese 0 mg
- Chromium 0 mcg
- Molybdenum 0 mcg
- Chloride 0 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
