Are you craving a delicious and satisfying meal that's also quick and easy to prepare? Look no further! This Turkey Sausage and Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with flavor, healthy ingredients, and requires minimal cooking time, making it an ideal choice for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs seeking a simple yet impressive dinner. This recipe provides a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a delicious alternative to takeout or processed meals. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound turkey Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Brown the Sausage: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This step helps to render out some of the fat, resulting in a leaner and healthier meal.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired. This dish is also wonderful served with a side salad for a complete and healthy meal.
Tips for the Best Turkey Sausage and Pasta:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your dish will greatly improve if you use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is perfectly cooked and holds its shape better in the sauce.
- Adjust the spices to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or other spices to your liking.
- Add vegetables: For an even healthier and more flavorful meal, consider adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Sausage: Use spicy Italian turkey sausage for an extra kick.
- Creamy Sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the turkey sausage with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This quick dinner recipe is a perfect example of a healthy meal that doesn't compromise on taste. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make turkey sausage and pasta dish! It's sure to become a family favorite, proving that healthy eating can also be incredibly satisfying and delicious. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and can easily be scaled up or down to feed a crowd or just yourself.