Penne With Turkey & Broccoli
Description
This comforting Penne with Turkey and Broccoli is the perfect weeknight dinner for a balanced, satisfying meal. The lean ground turkey browns beautifully in olive oil before being simmered in a savory sauce made from crushed plum tomatoes, aromatic garlic, and onion. Fresh broccoli florets are cooked directly in the sauce, retaining their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture while absorbing the rich flavors. Seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and a hint of chili flakes for warmth, this dish is light yet filling. It pairs wonderfully with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. Ideal for families looking for a quick, nutritious option that tastes like home cooking without the fuss.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.
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Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onions, garlic, and chili flakes to the skillet.
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Cook gently for 5 minutes, or until the aromatics are very fragrant and onions are soft.
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Add the plum tomatoes with their juices to the skillet; bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
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Stir in the diced cooked turkey and cook for 5 minutes to heat through.
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Add the broccoli florets, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
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Cook for 5 to 8 minutes longer, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender-crisp and heated through.
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Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in the boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente.
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Drain the pasta well.
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Toss the drained pasta with the turkey and broccoli sauce.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.
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Serve immediately, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12g19%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Cholesterol 75mg25%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 55g19%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 25g50%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Variations: You can substitute the turkey with ground chicken, beef, or plant-based ground meat. Swap broccoli for cauliflower, snap peas, or spinach.
Tips: For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream at the end. If using raw ground turkey, brown it first before adding the tomatoes, ensuring it is fully cooked.