Italian-Style Turkey & Penne Skillet: A One-Pan Delight

Smartphones display various delicious dishes; "Food Diary" and "Home Instead" logos appear on a beige background. - Home Instead
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
  • One-Pan Simplicity: Less clean-up, more enjoyment!
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Lean turkey, whole grains, and veggies for a balanced meal.
  • Flavourful & Satisfying: A delicious blend of Italian herbs, tomatoes, and a touch of spice.

Ingredients 

  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, crushed
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • 225g uncooked lean ground turkey breast
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Non-stick cooking spray
  • 75g chopped onion (about 1 medium onion)
  • 475ml water
  • 56g multi-grain penne pasta
  • 1 (225g) can no-salt-added tomato sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 140g fresh baby spinach
  • 3 tablespoons (24g) finely shredded Parmesan cheese
Ingredients for a pasta dish: ground meat, pasta, spinach, cheese, sauce, onion, garlic, spices, and a spray bottle. - Home Instead

Directions

  1. Prepare the Seasoning & Turkey: In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. In a medium bowl, combine the ground turkey, seasoning mixture, and minced garlic. Mix well using a wooden spoon or clean hands.
  2. Cook the Turkey & Onion: Coat an extra-large non-stick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high. Add the turkey mixture and chopped onion. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned. Remove from skillet, cover, and keep warm.
  3. Cook the Pasta: In the same skillet, add the water and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 120ml (½ cup) of the cooking liquid.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Return the pasta and the reserved cooking liquid to the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, salt, and cooked turkey mixture. Heat through.
  5. Add Spinach & Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese.
  6. Serve & Enjoy! Plate up this delicious dish and enjoy a healthy, hearty meal.
A skillet of penne pasta with tomato sauce, sausage, spinach leaves, and grated cheese on top. - Home Instead

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a fresh green salad and a slice of whole-grain bread for an even more satisfying meal.

Try this easy skillet meal tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality Italian dish at home!