Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta & Liquids
- 8 oz dry short pasta (rotini, bow-tie, or macaroni)
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Fats & Cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Turkey: In a large deep skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Sauté Vegetables and Add Seasonings: Add diced bell pepper, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add Broth, Pasta, and Corn: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the dry pasta and corn kernels, mixing gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cook the Pasta: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a light boil. Once boiling, stir, reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, chop the spinach and grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Continue Cooking: Remove the lid, stir well, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Check the pasta for doneness and cook uncovered for 2 to 3 more minutes if needed, until tender and most broth is absorbed.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, freshly grated Parmesan, and chopped spinach. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce is warm and creamy.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, one-pot ground turkey and corn pasta.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce.
- You can substitute pasta with gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Frozen corn should be thawed before use for best texture.
- If you want to make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and a vegan butter alternative.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat