Save to Pinterest A festive, comforting pasta dish featuring tender turkey, fresh spinach, and a luxuriously creamy sauce&mdashall made in a single pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
This dish became a holiday favorite in my family because it combines hearty ingredients with a creamy texture that delights everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 350 g (12 oz) cooked turkey breast, shredded or chopped
- Vegetables: 150 g (5 oz) fresh baby spinach, 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (penne or fusilli)
- Dairy: 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) low-sodium chicken or turkey broth, 120 ml (½ cup) milk
- Seasonings: ½ tsp dried thyme, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Extra Parmesan cheese, Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 23 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the pasta, broth, milk, thyme, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer for 1012 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the turkey and spinach. Cook uncovered for 23 minutes, until the spinach wilts and turkey is heated through.
- Step 5:
- Lower the heat, add the heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this meal with my loved ones always brings warmth and joy to our gatherings.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan, butter) and gluten (pasta). Parmesan may contain animal rennet use a vegetarian alternative if needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 545, Total Fat 20 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 36 g
Save to Pinterest This one pot creamy spinach and turkey pasta is perfect for festive occasions or cozy family dinners.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the turkey with another protein?
Yes, leftover roast chicken works wonderfully as a substitute, maintaining the dish's tender texture and flavor.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pasta varieties like penne or fusilli hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly within the one-pot method.
- → How can I add a little spice to the dish?
Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking to introduce gentle heat without overpowering the creamy flavors.
- → Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich and creamy.
- → What is the best way to make the spinach vibrant and tender?
Stir the fresh spinach in at the end of cooking and cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes until it just wilts to preserve color and texture.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess and texture.