The easiest ground turkey spaghetti you’ll find, this recipe combines 6 simple ingredients like garlicky marinara sauce, a few simple spices, and ground turkey for a flavor packed meal that’s nearly effortless! So simple and full of flavor it’s a protein packed and satisfying meal and includes instructions for cooking on the stovetop in just 30-minutes, as well as for a hands-off simmer in the slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic, comforting dish that most of us have grown up eating. However, preparing a flavorful, homemade meat sauce can be time consuming. Ground turkey is a great alternative to make weeknight spaghetti quicker and healthier. With the right seasonings, ground turkey can be just as delicious as beef or sausage in your spaghetti.
I’ve experimented with different ways to season ground turkey for spaghetti over the years. Through trial and error in my home kitchen I’ve landed on a simple seasoning blend that infuses the meat with big flavor. The key is using Italian herbs and spices that complement the taste of the tomato sauce.
In this article, I’ll share my favorite way to season ground turkey for easy, tasty spaghetti in 30 minutes or less. You’ll also find answers to common questions on preparing this meal, along with some helpful tips and tricks I’ve picked up Let’s get started!
How to Season Ground Turkey for Spaghetti
Here is my go-to method for seasoning one pound of ground turkey for spaghetti
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey (90/10 or 85/15 fat ratio)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1⁄2 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
- 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
- 1⁄2 tsp onion powder
- 1⁄4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Add the ground turkey to a skillet over medium heat. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Once the turkey begins to brown, stir in the dried oregano, basil, fennel seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, until the turkey is fully browned and cooked through.
- Add your favorite tomato pasta sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve the sauce over hot spaghetti noodles. Top with Parmesan cheese.
The combination of Italian herbs gives the turkey a savory, authentic flavor that complements the tomato sauce. The garlic, onions, and red pepper flakes add layers of flavor and a slight kick. This easy seasoning blend takes plain ground turkey from blah to ta-dah!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best ground turkey to use for spaghetti?
I prefer to use 90/10 or 85/15 ground turkey for spaghetti. The higher fat content keeps the meat moist and tender when cooked. Extremely lean ground turkey can become dense and dry.
Do I have to use Italian seasoning?
While Italian seasoning gives great flavor, you can substitute the dried herbs called for in the recipe. Use 1 teaspoon each of basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Can I use fresh herbs instead?
Absolutely! If using fresh basil, oregano, etc., use about 2-3 times the amount called for in dried herbs. Chop the herbs finely before adding to the meat. Add them at the end for best flavor.
What about seasoning the sauce instead?
You can season just the tomato sauce, but I find it doesn’t infuse the turkey with as much flavor. Seasoning the meat while it browns really boosts the taste.
Should I add the seasoning before or after cooking?
Always season the turkey before cooking. This allows the spices to be distributed evenly and fully absorbed into the meat as it cooks.
How can I add more flavor?
For extra flavor, saute 1/2 cup diced onion and 2-3 minced garlic cloves in the skillet before adding the turkey. You can also add 1/4 cup red wine to the sauce.
What should I do about the fat?
I recommend draining off excess fat after cooking the turkey. This prevents the sauce from being too oily. Simply tilt the pan and spoon off fat before adding the tomato sauce.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! Fully prepare the sauce up to a day ahead. Refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat over medium heat before tossing with pasta. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.
What goes well with this spaghetti?
Serve it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a tasty, complete meal. Caeser salad and focaccia bread are perfect matches.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results
Follow these tips for flavorful, juicy ground turkey spaghetti every time:
- Always use a heavy skillet instead of a nonstick pan. The meat will brown better and develop more flavor.
- Break up the turkey thoroughly with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This prevents clumping.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches for even browning.
- Cook over medium heat. High heat makes the turkey dry out.
- Stir in pasta water if the finished sauce is too thick. The starch creates a nice consistency.
- Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
With my simple seasoning blend, you’ll never go back to bland ground turkey spaghetti again! Let the savory Italian flavors transport you to the Tuscan countryside in every satisfying bite. Mangia!
Testing Notes from Robyn
This spaghetti sauce with turkey has become a once-a-week staple for my family, especially for night’s when my daughter has track practice or soccer.
On those nights, I need something ready to eat when we get home, and I want a meal that my who family loves and is filling and nutritious – and this recipe fits the bill!
While it’s delicious as is with tender ground turkey and a garlicky tomato sauce, what’s great about this recipe is it’s so versatile.
Use your favorite marinara, swap the protein, add more veggies, and even use the cooking method that works best for you!
For more easy ground turkey recipes for busy nights, make sure to check out my slow cooker turkey sloppy joes and slow cooker turkey recipes.
I call for my easy homemade marinara sauce in this ground turkey spaghetti sauce, which I pretty much always have on hand because it’s easy to make, and I use it in so many of my recipes (like ground turkey pasta and slow cooker turkey meatballs). But, if you’re in a pinch, you can use your favorite high-quality jarred marinara sauce.