Turkey Sausage and Pasta Recipes for Quick Healthy Meals

If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family, turkey sausage and pasta recipes are a fantastic choice. These dishes marry the savory, slightly spicy taste of turkey sausage with the comforting texture of perfectly cooked pasta, creating a balanced and delicious plate.

Whether you prefer a creamy sauce, a zesty tomato base, or a light garlic and herb drizzle, there’s a turkey sausage pasta recipe for every palate.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some mouthwatering recipes that highlight the versatility of turkey sausage paired with various pasta types. From simple weeknight dinners to slightly elevated dishes perfect for guests, these recipes are packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors.

Plus, turkey sausage is a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage, making these meals a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Let’s dive into the delicious world of turkey sausage and pasta recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turkey sausage and pasta recipes are incredibly popular because they offer a perfect combination of protein, carbs, and flavor. Here’s why these dishes stand out:

• Lean Protein: Turkey sausage is a healthier alternative to pork sausage, lower in fat but still rich in flavor.
• Quick & Easy: Most recipes come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: You can customize sauces, spices, and pasta types to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
• Family Friendly: These dishes are crowd-pleasers suitable for kids and adults alike.
• Nutritious: Adding veggies, herbs, and whole grain pasta can boost the nutritional value.

Ingredients

• 1 pound turkey sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta cooking water
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional veggies: spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.
2. Brown the turkey sausage: While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add turkey sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for 8-10 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Return sausage to skillet: Add cooked turkey sausage back into the sauce. Stir well and let everything heat through for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss gently to coat pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
7. Finish with cheese and herbs: Remove skillet from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a bright, fresh flavor.
8. Serve immediately: Plate the pasta and sausage mixture, optionally garnished with extra cheese and herbs.

Tips & Variations

Tip: For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic and onions. Let it reduce before adding the tomatoes.

Variation: Swap out turkey sausage for chicken or pork sausage depending on your preference. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist.

Tip: Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for an extra nutrient boost. Simply sauté them along with onions or stir them in near the end.

Variation: For a creamy version, stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or Greek yogurt just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve your turkey sausage and pasta with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also pairs wonderfully, adding a crunchy, buttery side.

For a complete meal, consider a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. To keep the meal lighter, a fresh arugula salad with lemon dressing works beautifully.

Looking for more inspiring dishes? Check out these other recipes you might enjoy:

• Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas
• Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious
• All Recipes Roasted Vegetable Pasta for Easy Dinners

Delicious Turkey Sausage and Pasta Recipe Ideas to Try

Spicy Turkey Sausage Penne with Tomato Basil Sauce

This recipe features spicy turkey sausage simmered in a fresh tomato and basil sauce, tossed with penne pasta. The heat from the sausage combined with aromatic herbs makes for a lively, comforting dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spicy turkey sausage
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves
• Olive oil, garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Brown turkey sausage, then set aside.
3. Sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer.
5. Return sausage to sauce and heat through.
6. Toss pasta with sauce and garnish with basil.

Creamy Turkey Sausage Fettuccine with Spinach

A creamy pasta dish where turkey sausage is combined with a rich cream sauce and fresh spinach, served over fettuccine noodles. It’s indulgent but still easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb turkey sausage
• 12 oz fettuccine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• Parmesan cheese, garlic, and onion

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine and reserve pasta water.
2. Brown turkey sausage and remove from pan.
3. Sauté garlic and onion, then add cream.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Return sausage to pan, combine with pasta, and toss.
6. Adjust sauce with pasta water if needed and serve with cheese.

Turkey Sausage Rigatoni with Roasted Vegetables

This dish combines turkey sausage and rigatoni with a mix of roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor. Roasting the veggies brings out their natural sweetness, complementing the savory sausage.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb turkey sausage
• 12 oz rigatoni
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• Olive oil, garlic, Italian herbs

Instructions:

1. Roast vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs at 400°F for 20 minutes.
2. Cook rigatoni until al dente.
3. Brown turkey sausage in a skillet.
4. Combine pasta, sausage, and roasted vegetables.
5. Toss with garlic olive oil or a light tomato sauce.
6. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

Conclusion

Turkey sausage and pasta recipes offer a delightful way to create satisfying meals that are both quick and nutritious. Whether you prefer a spicy tomato sauce, a creamy pasta, or a veggie-packed rigatoni, turkey sausage provides a lean protein that enhances every dish.

These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even casual entertaining.

By experimenting with different pasta types, sauces, and vegetables, you can customize these meals to your liking and keep dinner exciting. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas or Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious for more inspiration.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with turkey sausage and pasta — a perfect combination of flavor, comfort, and nutrition!

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