Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti

Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti is a delightful twist on the classic spaghetti dish that combines lean ground turkey and Italian sausage, creating a savory and hearty meal that the entire family will love. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with flavor, thanks to the rich assortment of tomatoes and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why Cooks Rave About It

What sets Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti apart is its perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Ground turkey provides a leaner option compared to traditional ground beef, while the combination of Italian sausage adds depth and richness. The medley of tomatoes creates a vibrant sauce that clings beautifully to the spaghetti, making every bite a delight. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

The Essentials

To whip up this delicious Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:

• 16 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cans tomato sauce (15 ounces each)
• 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 can Italian-style diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
• 1 can tomato paste (6 ounces)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon white sugar

Before You Start: Equipment

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Large pot: For boiling spaghetti.
• Skillet or dutch oven: To cook the meat and sauce.
• Wooden spoon: For stirring.
• Measuring spoons: For accurate measurements of spices.
• Colander: To drain the spaghetti.

Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meats

In a large skillet or dutch oven over medium heat, add the ground turkey and Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the meat is fully cooked through.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked meat. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Tomatoes

Stir in the tomato sauce, fire roasted diced tomatoes, Italian-style diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Season the Sauce

Add the dried Italian herb seasoning, garlic powder, salt, oregano, thyme, basil, and white sugar to the sauce. Stir to incorporate all the spices, allowing them to meld together.

Step 6: Simmer

Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will enhance the flavors and thicken the sauce.

Step 7: Combine Spaghetti and Sauce

Once the sauce has simmered, combine it with the drained spaghetti in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate the Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the robust flavors of this hearty dish!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

With its versatility, Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti can adapt to any season:

• Warm Weather: Serve the spaghetti cold as a pasta salad with diced bell peppers, cucumbers, and olives for a refreshing twist.
• Cool Weather: Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for deeper flavor and serve with warm, crusty bread.

Insider Tips

• For extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce while it simmers.
• Feel free to include your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added nutrition and texture.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Let the sauce sit for a day in the fridge for even richer flavors.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through.

Questions People Ask

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative and adds more fiber to the dish, making it even healthier.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground turkey and Italian sausage with plant-based alternatives or an assortment of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

What kind of sauce can I use if I don’t have canned tomatoes?

You can use store-bought marinara sauce or any jarred pasta sauce of your choice. Just adjust the seasoning according to taste.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply replace the spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta option available in most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti, it’s time to explore even more delicious variations and side dishes to complement your meal. Consider whipping up a fresh salad or garlic bread to serve alongside this comforting pasta dish. Get creative with your ingredients and make it your own!

The joy of cooking is not only in the taste but also in the experience of making meals that bring loved ones together. Italian Style Ground Turkey Spaghetti is a perfect example of that, showcasing the heartiness of Italian cuisine while being adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy your cooking adventure!