Save A festive, comforting pasta dish featuring tender turkey, fresh spinach, and a luxuriously creamy sauce—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
This creamy spinach and turkey pasta has become a holiday favorite in my family since it combines comfort and convenience perfectly.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 350 g (12 oz) cooked turkey breast, shredded or chopped
- Vegetables: 150 g (5 oz) fresh baby spinach, 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (penne or fusilli)
- Dairy: 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) low sodium chicken or turkey broth, 120 ml (½ cup) milk
- Seasonings: ½ tsp dried thyme, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Extra Parmesan cheese, Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the pasta, broth, milk, thyme, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer for 10 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the turkey and spinach. Cook uncovered for 2 3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and turkey is heated through.
- Step 5:
- Lower the heat, add the heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Save This recipe always brings the family together around the table during the holidays, sharing stories and laughter.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan, butter) and gluten (pasta). Parmesan may contain animal rennet use a vegetarian alternative if needed. Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 545, Total Fat 20 g, Carbohydrates 54 g, Protein 36 g per serving.
Save Enjoy this easy and flavorful dish that makes holiday meals stress free and delicious every time.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute chicken for turkey in this dish?
Yes, leftover roast chicken can be used interchangeably with turkey without altering the flavor significantly.
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Short pastas like penne or fusilli are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.
- → How can I make the dish lighter without losing creaminess?
Using half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining a smooth texture.
- → Is it important to use low-sodium broth here?
Yes, low-sodium broth helps control salt levels, allowing you to season the dish precisely to taste.
- → Can I add heat or spice to enhance the flavor?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes introduces gentle heat that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it.