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 quickly became a holiday favorite in my family because of how simple and satisfying it is.
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 dish always brings the family together around the dinner table during the holidays.
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
Save Enjoy this easy one pot pasta as a delicious cozy meal perfect for holiday gatherings.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, leftover roast chicken works well as a substitute, offering similar flavor and texture.
- → What pasta types work best for this dish?
Short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli hold the creamy sauce nicely and cook evenly in one pot.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
Use half-and-half or milk in place of heavy cream to reduce richness while keeping creaminess.
- → Is it possible to add a spicy kick?
Yes, a pinch of red pepper flakes added while cooking adds gentle heat without overpowering.
- → How do I prevent the spinach from overcooking?
Stir in the spinach near the end of cooking and cook uncovered for just 2-3 minutes until wilted.