Are you tired of battling mealtime struggles with picky eaters who turn their noses up at healthy dishes? Get ready to revolutionize your dinner routine with this foolproof Turkey Pasta Skillet that sneaks in nutritious vegetables while delivering maximum flavor! Perfect for busy families and meal preppers, this recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that will have even the most selective eaters asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mixed
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 cup pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and kitchen tools: large skillet, pasta pot, colander, cutting board, and measuring cups.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water for flavor.
- Add pasta to boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat to medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and break into small crumbles using a wooden spoon.
- Cook turkey until fully browned and no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season turkey with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute seasoning evenly.
- Add sliced carrots to the skillet and sauté with turkey for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Stir in peas and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Pour marinara sauce over the turkey and vegetable mixture, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet and gently mix to coat with sauce and vegetables.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover skillet for 2 minutes to allow cheese to melt.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 3 minutes before serving.
- Portion into meal prep containers, allowing to cool completely before refrigerating.
Tips
- Chop vegetables finely to help them blend seamlessly into the sauce, making them less noticeable for picky eaters.
- Use marinara sauce as a flavor disguiser for added vegetables like carrots and peas.
- Let kids help with safe cooking tasks to increase their interest in the meal.
- Customize cheese types to match your family's preferences - mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend work great.
- Prep ingredients in advance to make cooking faster and more convenient.
- Consider freezing individual portions for quick future meals.
- Experiment with different protein options like chicken or plant-based alternatives if turkey isn't a favorite.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 75mg
