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Delicious protein-packed pasta with ground turkey and ricotta cheese, featuring fresh vegetables.

Protein Pasta with Ground Turkey and Ricotta

A creamy and savory pasta dish that combines protein-packed ingredients to create a comfort food that feels indulgent without the heaviness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz protein pasta (chickpea, lentil, or high protein wheat pasta) Choose your favorite shape, like penne or rotini.
  • 1 cup marinara or crushed tomatoes Use a quality jar.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is best.
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese Part skim is also fine.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Optional for garnish.
  • 1 handful spinach Optional for added greens.
Meat and Seasonings
  • 1 lb ground turkey Lean, but not ultra lean for juiciness.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For browning the turkey.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning To taste.
  • Salt to taste For salting pasta water and seasoning.
  • Pepper to taste For seasoning the turkey.
  • Pinch red pepper flakes Optional for heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil your pasta in salted water until just al dente, about one minute shy of package instructions. Reserve one cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up and seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let it brown for a couple of minutes before stirring.
  3. Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the marinara or crushed tomatoes and let simmer for a few minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the ricotta. Gradually add splashes of reserved pasta water until the sauce is creamy.
  5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. If using, add spinach at the end and allow it to wilt.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, finishing with grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of water or marinara to restore creaminess.