30 Minute Creamy Tortellini Pasta With Ground Turkey

This easy recipe for Creamy Tortellini Pasta with Ground Turkey combines cheese tortellini, savory ground turkey, and a creamy sauce made with marinara and Greek yogurt for a satisfying meal that’s ready in a snap. Get ready to enjoy a hearty dinner with little effort! 

As a busy home cook, I love using tortellini in easy dinner recipes because it makes the meal feel fancy when it’s really not! The hearty tortellini are the star of the show alongside ground turkey.

Made With Greek Yogurt Instead of Heavy Cream

Greek yogurt is my secret weapon in this recipe because it adds creaminess to the dish with a little bit of creaminess and tang. Serve it as a delicious standalone dinner for a quick meal, or pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad.

If you love this easy pasta dinner, you’ll love making my 20-Minute Instant Pot Pasta, Instant Pot Tortellini Soup, or Parmesan Chicken Baked Ziti!

Quick, Creamy, and Comforting

• This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect option for busy weeknight dinners when you need something quick and satisfying.
• The creamy sauce, made with Greek yogurt and marinara, adds a luxurious and tangy twist to classic tortellini pasta, elevating your meal without the extra effort.
• The combination of tender tortellini, savory turkey, and the fresh, vibrant flavors of spinach and lemon juice creates a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Cheese Tortellini – The star of the dish provides a hearty and satisfying base for the meal.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing the garlic and onion, adding a rich and savory flavor to the sauce.
• Garlic and Onion – Enhance the overall depth and complexity of the dish’s flavor profile.
• Ground Turkey – My favorite ground meat to cook with.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika) – These seasonings elevate the taste of the ground turkey.
• Marinara Sauce (Rao’s) – Brings a robust tomato flavor to the dish, creating a luscious base for the creamy sauce. You can use your favorite jar of sauce or make your own.
• Full Fat Greek Yogurt – Provides creaminess and tanginess to the sauce, adding richness without the heaviness of traditional cream.
• Fresh Spinach – Adds a pop of vibrant color, freshness, and a dose of greens to balance the richness of the dish.
• Lemon Juice – The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the flavors, lending a refreshing and zesty contrast.
• Parmesan Cheese – The finishing touch that delivers a salty and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the dish.

How To Make Creamy Tortellini Pasta With Ground Turkey

Cook the tortellini: Add water to a large pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add two tablespoons of salt, followed by the tortellini. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box. 

Saute the ingredients: Add a skillet to the stovetop over medium-high heat. Add the oil and onion. Saute for a couple of minutes until the onion begins to soften, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the flavor. 

Cook the turkey: To the skillet, add the ground turkey, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Break up the meat into pieces while browning until fully cooked through.

Combine the sauce: Add the marinara sauce and yogurt and stir to combine until a creamy pink sauce forms. 

Assemble the dish: Once the sauce is formed, add in the fresh spinach, cooked and drained tortellini, and lemon juice. Mix until the spinach is fully wilted. Stir in parmesan cheese. Plate and enjoy! 

Cooking Tips

• To prevent the tortellini from sticking together during boiling, give them a gentle stir immediately after adding them to the boiling water and periodically while cooking.
• Choose a high-quality marinara sauce like Rao’s for the best flavor results, but feel free to use your favorite brand.
• When adding Greek yogurt to the sauce, do so slowly over low heat to prevent curdling. Gradually whisk it in until fully incorporated.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

• If you prefer a meatless version, omit the ground turkey and add sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or extra spinach.
• Substitute the ground turkey with ground chicken, pork, or beef.
• Experiment with different tortellini varieties, such as spinach and cheese or mushroom-filled.
• Substitute the spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard.

Storing & Freezing

Storage: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it in a saucepan on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra sauce if needed to maintain creaminess.

Freezing: Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or airtight bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in a saucepan on low heat, stirring frequently.

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