One Pot Ground Turkey: 1 Amazing Weeknight Meal

Name: One Pot Ground Turkey: 1 Amazing Weeknight Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup spinach, chopped; ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh basil, for garnish

by Jannet Lisa

30 de July de 2025

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One pot ground turkey has become my absolute go-to for busy weeknights, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you! I still remember the first time I made it; the aroma of garlic and Italian herbs filled my kitchen, and my family devoured it in minutes. It’s one of those genuinely satisfying ground turkey one pan meals that makes cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking for easy one pot ground turkey recipes that are packed with flavor, you’ve found it. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Ground Turkey

This recipe is a weeknight game-changer for so many reasons. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:

Incredible Flavor: It’s packed with savory ground turkey, tender pasta, and aromatic seasonings for a truly delicious meal.

Super Quick Prep: With minimal chopping and just one pot to wash, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Healthy & Wholesome: This is a fantastic way to enjoy healthy one pot ground turkey meals, loaded with protein and vegetables.
Budget-Friendly: Ground turkey and pantry staples make this an economical choice for feeding the family.

Family Approved: Even picky eaters love this comforting and satisfying one pot turkey mince dish.
Easy Cleanup: Seriously, just one pot! It’s a dream for busy parents or anyone who hates dishes.
Versatile: You can easily adapt this one pot turkey mince with different veggies or spices to suit your taste.

Perfectly Portioned: It’s a complete meal that’s satisfying and doesn’t require a lot of fuss.

Ingredients for One Pot Ground Turkey Pasta

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious and easy meal. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for satisfying ground turkey mince dinner ideas. You’ll need:

1 lb ground turkey – lean or extra-lean works best for this dish

12 oz penne or rotini pasta – choose a shape that holds sauce well
1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup, adds a sweet base
3 garlic cloves, minced – essential for that savory depth

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, including juices – these tomatoes add moisture and flavor
2 cups chicken broth – provides liquid for the pasta to cook in and adds richness
1 tsp Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that perfectly complements the turkey and tomatoes

Salt and pepper, to taste – always important for seasoning
1 cup spinach, chopped – wilts in easily for a boost of greens
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated – for a creamy, cheesy finish

Fresh basil, for garnish – adds a pop of freshness and color

How to Make One Pot Ground Turkey

This recipe truly makes cooking a breeze! It’s a fantastic quick ground turkey one pot dinner that comes together with minimal fuss.

Step 1: Grab a large pot or Dutch oven and heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 3–4 minutes until it starts to soften and turn translucent. You’ll smell that sweet onion aroma filling your kitchen. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until it’s fragrant – be careful not to burn it!

Step 2: Add 1 lb ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with your spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5–7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess fat if needed. Season the turkey with 1 tsp Italian seasoning, plus salt and pepper to your taste. This is a crucial step for building flavor in this quick ground turkey one pot dinner.
Step 3: Pour in the 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with their juices and 2 cups chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – that’s where the flavor is! Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Step 4: Add the 12 oz penne or rotini pasta to the pot. Stir it in well, making sure the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot tightly, and let it cook for 10–12 minutes. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking. You want the pasta to be tender and most of the liquid absorbed.

Step 5: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the 1 cup chopped spinach. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring gently, until the spinach wilts into the pasta.
Step 6: Turn off the heat. Stir in the ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. This makes the dish incredibly rich and satisfying. Serve your delicious one pot ground turkey hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra Parmesan if you like. Enjoy this simple ground turkey one pot supper!

One Pot Ground Turkey: 1 Amazing Weeknight Meal - One Pot Ground Turkey - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best One Pot Ground Turkey

Want to elevate your one-pot creation? These tips guarantee a delicious result every time, making it one of your favorite easy ground turkey one pot recipes.

Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta during the simmering stage; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook slightly when you stir in the spinach and cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Ground turkey can be a bit milder than other meats, so tasting and adjusting salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before serving is key.
Use quality broth: A good chicken broth will significantly impact the overall flavor of your dish, so opt for a low-sodium variety you enjoy.

Prep all ingredients beforehand: Since the cooking process is fast, having your onion chopped, garlic minced, and spinach ready to go makes this a truly quick ground turkey one pot dinner.

What’s the secret to perfect one pot ground turkey?

The magic lies in building flavor layers from the start. Sautéing the aromatics and browning the turkey well before adding liquids creates a depth that’s essential for great skillet ground turkey recipes. Don’t skip these initial steps!

Can I make one pot ground turkey ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead. Chop your veggies and measure out your spices. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes assembly even faster for a simple ground turkey one pot supper.

How do I avoid common mistakes with one pot ground turkey?

A common pitfall is adding too much liquid, which can make the pasta mushy. Measure your broth carefully! Also, ensure you stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Best Ways to Serve One Pot Ground Turkey

This versatile dish is fantastic on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that complement its savory flavors. For a complete meal that’s bursting with goodness, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. This adds a lovely crispness to contrast the creamy pasta. If you’re looking for more robust one pot ground turkey and vegetables options, a side of steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus works wonderfully. These simple additions make your easy one pot ground turkey recipes feel even more special.

Nutrition Facts for One Pot Ground Turkey

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, and here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving. It’s a great option for healthy one pot ground turkey meals.

Calories: 380
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the fat content of your ground turkey and the sodium in your broth.

How to Store and Reheat One Pot Ground Turkey

Once your delicious one pot ground turkey is ready, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep them tasting great. Let the dish cool down for about an hour before transferring it into airtight containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the pasta soggy. You can store these containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you have a lot of leftovers or want to save some for a future meal, this dish freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it should last for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy these healthy one pot ground turkey meals again, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Gently warm it in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry. You can also microwave it, stirring halfway through, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pot Ground Turkey

What is a good one pot ground turkey recipe?

This recipe is a fantastic example of a good one pot ground turkey recipe because it’s simple, flavorful, and uses common ingredients. It’s a complete meal that’s satisfying and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for weeknights.

How do I make one pot ground turkey?

To make one pot ground turkey, you’ll typically brown your ground turkey with aromatics like onion and garlic in a single pot. Then, you’ll add liquids like broth and tomatoes, along with pasta and vegetables, and simmer until everything is cooked through. It’s a straightforward process that yields a delicious meal.

Can I add other vegetables to this one pot ground turkey?

Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. You can easily incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas. Just add them when you add the spinach, or sauté them with the onions at the beginning if they need more cooking time. It’s a great way to make your one pot ground turkey and vegetables even more nutritious.

Why use one pot for ground turkey?

Using one pot for ground turkey saves you time and effort, especially when it comes to cleanup. It allows all the ingredients to cook together, melding their flavors beautifully. This method is perfect for busy home cooks looking for efficient and tasty meals.

Variations of One Pot Ground Turkey You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered this basic recipe, you can explore so many fun variations! It’s amazing how versatile one pot ground turkey can be. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Spicy Southwest Twist: Add a can of drained black beans and corn along with the diced tomatoes. Stir in some chili powder and cumin with the Italian seasoning for a Tex-Mex flair. This makes for a fantastic ground turkey mince dinner idea with a kick.
Creamy Tuscan Style: Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end with the Parmesan. Sun-dried tomatoes and a handful of fresh basil would be delicious additions here.

Ground Turkey and Rice One Pot: If pasta isn’t your thing, try substituting the pasta with 1.5 cups of uncooked white rice. You might need to add an extra cup of broth and cook for a few minutes longer, ensuring the rice is tender. This variation is hearty and satisfying.
Cheesy Casserole Bake: After cooking the pasta and wilting the spinach, transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with extra cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

One Pot Ground Turkey: 1 Amazing Weeknight Meal - One Pot Ground Turkey - additional detail

For more easy weeknight meal ideas, check out these latest recipes. If you’re looking for something different, this jalapeno popper sandwich is a unique option, or try this comforting French onion soup pasta. For a healthy twist, consider these healthy butterfingers.