This easy and delicious meal combines tender turkey with colorful vegetables and bow-tie pasta for a satisfying dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time20 min
Total Time30 min
Difficulty
Medium
Tips To Improve This Recipe
Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Use ground turkey with a bit of fat for better flavor and moisture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the turkey; this helps it brown nicely instead of steaming.
Ingredients
0/9
Why This Recipe Is So Good
This dish combines the comforting texture of bow-tie pasta with lean turkey, making it both hearty and healthy. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Directions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow-tie pasta and cook it until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite, about 12 minutes, stirring now and then. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and crumbly, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Turn the heat down to low, then stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and garlic salt. Let everything simmer together for a minute or two, then take it off the heat and cover it so the flavors meld. Once the pasta is done, drain it and transfer it to a medium casserole dish. Mix in the mozzarella, Cheddar cheese, and poppy seeds until everything is combined. Finally, spread the turkey mixture over the top and it’s ready to serve.
211
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
Best Serving Ideas
Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a handful of chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley adds a nice finishing touch.
Leftover Care Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta moist. For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of farfalle?
Yes, any short pasta like penne, rotini, or shells will work well in this dish.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the turkey mixture while it simmers.
Is it okay to use lean ground turkey?
Absolutely, lean ground turkey works great and helps keep the dish lighter.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the pasta and turkey mixture separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
What can I substitute for the poppy seeds if I don’t have any?
You can omit them or use sesame seeds for a similar texture and slight nutty flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach would complement the flavors well.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
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