Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta is a simple, comforting dish that’s packed with creamy cheese and tender ground turkey, all tossed together with your favorite pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend forever in the kitchen.
I love making this dish because it’s quick to pull together, yet still feels like a special treat. The creamy cheese sauce blends so well with the turkey and pasta, making every bite deliciously smooth and flavorful. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up regular pasta nights by adding lean protein without losing any of that cozy comfort food goodness.
My favorite way to enjoy this pasta is with a side of fresh green salad or some steamed veggies, so I can get a pop of color and crunch alongside the creamy goodness. It’s also perfect for leftovers, which I find myself excited to eat again the next day. If you’re looking for an easy way to make a cheesy, hearty meal that everyone will love, this one’s a winner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein keeps the dish light but filling. You can swap it for ground chicken or lean ground beef if preferred. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tofu or cooked lentils.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds tang and richness, while mozzarella gives that gooey pull. If you want, mix in Monterey Jack or a mild cheese. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese shreds.
Rotini Pasta: The spiral shape holds the sauce well. You can use penne, shells, or fusilli as substitutes. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Corn & Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweet bursts of flavor and texture. If you don’t have fresh, frozen or canned corn and cherry tomatoes work fine. You can swap cherry tomatoes for diced bell peppers or zucchini for a veggie twist.
How Do I Make a Smooth, Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making the cheese sauce (or béchamel) seems tricky but it’s simple with these steps:
- Melt butter on medium heat, then whisk in flour right away. Keep whisking for about a minute; this cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Don’t rush—adding milk too fast can cause clumps.
- Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. When it coats the back of your spoon, it’s ready for cheese.
- Reduce heat before adding cheese. Stir gently until melted and smooth. Overheating can cause cheese to separate, so low and slow is the key.
Taking your time with these steps gives you a creamy, velvety cheese sauce that clings beautifully to pasta and turkey.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta and draining it easily.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – roomy enough to cook turkey and make the cheese sauce in one place.
- Whisk – keeps the cheese sauce smooth and lump-free while cooking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the turkey and mixing pasta without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef for different flavors and textures.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients and a fresh taste.
- Stir in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little spicy kick.
- Mix in some cooked bacon or pancetta for smoky richness when you want a heartier dish.
Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta – Creamy, Comforting & So Easy!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil or cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and turkey, 5 minutes preparing the cheese sauce, and 10-15 minutes combining everything and allowing the cheese topping to melt. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey and Veggies:
While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil if needed. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft. Then add the ground turkey. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook the turkey, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (6-8 minutes). Stir in the corn and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes until tomatoes soften. Remove the mixture from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to cook the flour. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Reduce the heat, then stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Combine Everything and Finish:
Add the cooked ground turkey mixture back into the cheese sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta gently, making sure everything is coated well with the sauce. Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top if you like, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it sit for a few minutes or briefly place under a broiler to melt and slightly brown the cheese.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve your creamy, cheesy ground turkey pasta warm. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed veggies to balance the rich flavors. Leftovers taste great reheated too!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! Rotini works great because it holds the sauce well, but feel free to use penne, shells, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You can add a splash of milk if the sauce feels too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk along with vegan cheese shreds. The texture may vary slightly, but it’ll still be creamy and delicious.
