Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake

Name: Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best); 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love cooking comforting dishes that bring everyone together, and this Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake is no exception. With its rich, creamy sauce and savory ground turkey, it has quickly become a favorite in my household. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a delicious meal that's both satisfying and easy to make. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any pasta you have on hand. I can't wait to share this delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:05:27.564Z

When I first made this Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake, I was looking for a quick dinner option that would please both kids and adults. The blend of creamy sauce and the savory notes from the turkey create a delightful balance that made every bite enjoyable. I find that cooking the turkey with a touch of garlic and onion first adds an incredible depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Every time I serve this pasta bake, I'm met with smiles and empty plates. One tip I discovered along the way is to sprinkle a layer of cheese on top before baking; this creates a lovely golden crust that not only looks appetizing but adds a wonderful texture. It's these little touches that make this dish a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy sauce that envelops every bite.
Quick prep time makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake lies in its ingredients, each playing a critical role in achieving that rich flavor and creamy texture. Ground turkey is a lean protein that offers a milder taste compared to beef or pork, allowing the cream and cheeses to shine through. I recommend using lean ground turkey to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. The heavy cream not only enriches the sauce but also helps it adhere perfectly to the pasta, ensuring that every bite is indulgently creamy.

Using a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses creates a beautiful melt with a delightful stretch, enhancing the overall texture of the bake. Parmesan adds a salty depth that complements the creamy mozzarella, so don’t skip it! For a different flavor profile, you can substitute half of the mozzarella with a sharper cheese, such as cheddar or gouda, to really elevate the dish.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Pay close attention to cooking the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This helps prevent mushiness and maintains a pleasant bite. A good test is to taste a piece of pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time ends; it should be firm yet not raw. Be sure to reserve a bit of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid can be added to the sauce if it appears too thick, ensuring perfect consistency.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, a medium heat is crucial to developing their flavors without burning. Look for the onions to become translucent, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. This step enhances the dish's aromatic profile. If at any point your turkey seems to be browning too quickly, simply reduce the heat slightly to allow for even cooking and to prevent it from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious dish:

Ingredients

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
1 lb ground turkey
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Make sure to check your pantry for these ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Turkey Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and ground turkey, cooking until the turkey is browned and cooked through.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once heated through, add the cooked pasta and mix until well combined.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the pasta bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a little extra flavor, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms to the turkey mixture. You can also swap the ground turkey for ground beef or chicken if desired.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be going into the oven cold. Alternatively, you can freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking for best results.

When reheating leftovers, cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer the microwave, use a microwave-safe container and cover it loosely to retain moisture, reheating in 1-minute increments until hot.

Customization Ideas

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it according to your preferences or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground turkey with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can lend a Mediterranean flair, while extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini introduce vibrant colors and additional nutrients. Toss in some cooked lentils for extra protein and fiber, making it even more satisfying.

You can also play with the seasoning based on your taste. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. Fresh herbs can also elevate the flavors; adding chopped basil or parsley just before serving will provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy sauce. Experimenting with different combinations can keep this dish exciting, and it’s a fun way to introduce new flavors to your family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ What can I add for extra veggies?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or even broccoli to the dish. Just sauté them along with the onions.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking.

→ How long can leftovers be kept?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.