Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta is a simple, creamy, and comforting dish that comes together so quickly on busy nights. With tender ground turkey mixed into a cheesy sauce and tossed with pasta, it’s a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a big hug on a plate. The melty cheese makes every bite cozy and delicious, while the turkey keeps it hearty without being too heavy.
I love making this recipe when I want something filling but easy, especially when I’m short on time but still want something homemade. One of my favorite tricks is to use whatever pasta I have on hand—penne, rotini, or even spaghetti—and it always turns out great. Adding a little bit of garlic and onion to the turkey as it cooks really brings out the flavor, making the dish taste like I spent hours on it when I really didn’t.
This cheesy pasta is perfect for sharing with family or friends, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is just what everyone needs. I often serve it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance all that cheesy goodness. Every time I make it, it reminds me of cozy nights in where good food and easy cooking come together just right.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean protein keeps the dish light but hearty. If you want a richer flavor, try ground chicken or even lean ground beef. For a vegetarian twist, use cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Pasta: Rotini is great because its spirals hold the cheesy sauce well. But any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or shells works. Whole wheat pasta is a good healthy swap too.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang and melty texture. You can mix in mozzarella for extra stretch or use Colby Jack for a milder taste. Use dairy-free cheese if needed.
Milk and Roux: Milk creates the creamy cheese sauce when combined with butter and flour (the roux). Whole milk makes it richer, but 2% works fine to keep it lighter.
Frozen Peas: These add a bit of sweetness and color, but you can swap for spinach, chopped broccoli, or skip them entirely if preferred.
How Do You Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce Smooth and Lumps-Free?
Making the sauce step-by-step is key. Here’s how I do it for smooth, creamy results:
- First, melt butter over medium heat without letting it brown.
- Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the floury taste; this forms the roux.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking nonstop so the mixture stays smooth.
- Keep stirring as it thickens to avoid lumps and stickiness.
- Lower the heat before adding cheese so it melts gently without separating.
Take your time on this part — patience here makes the sauce creamy and smooth. If lumps form, whisk vigorously or strain before adding cheese.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta; you want plenty of water so the pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking the ground turkey and making the cheese sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you break up the turkey and stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Whisk – essential for making the roux and whisking the milk smoothly to avoid lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean ground beef if you prefer a different protein texture and flavor.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and a boost of flavor and texture.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a mild spicy kick.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a green, nutritious twist that softens nicely in the warm sauce.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta – Creamy, Comforting & So Easy!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano/basil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a creamy, cheesy pasta dish ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Cook the Turkey and Veggies:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground turkey. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the turkey. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. Stir in the frozen peas, if using, and cook for another 2 minutes to warm through.
3. Make the Cheesy Sauce:
Push the turkey mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour over the melted butter and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux—this helps thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking, creating a smooth mixture. Continue whisking and cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Turn the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the sauce is creamy.
4. Combine and Serve:
Mix the cheesy sauce evenly into the turkey and vegetable mixture. Season everything with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat all the noodles in the cheesy goodness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make Cheesy Ground Turkey Pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the turkey in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture that can affect browning.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the entire dish, then cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it feels too thick.
What’s the Best Cheese to Use if I Don’t Have Sharp Cheddar?
You can swap sharp cheddar for mild cheddar, Colby Jack, or even mozzarella for a creamier, milder flavor. Just be sure to use a good melting cheese to keep the sauce smooth and gooey.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm slowly on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating and adding a little milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
