Creamy Sundried Tomato Turkey Pasta

If you’re craving a comforting yet elegant pasta dish, look no further than this Creamy Sundried Tomato Turkey Pasta. It’s a beautiful blend of tender turkey breast, rich cream, and the tangy sweetness of sundried tomatoes, all tossed with your favorite pasta. This recipe is a weeknight winner, effortlessly balancing wholesome ingredients with big flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this creamy, savory pasta will soon become one of your go-to meals.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Creamy Sundried Tomato Turkey Pasta is a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The lean turkey breast adds a hearty protein punch without weighing the dish down, while the sundried tomatoes provide a burst of concentrated flavor that elevates the whole meal. The creamy sauce, enriched with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, coats the pasta beautifully, making each bite luscious and satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity paired with gourmet flair. It comes together quickly, using ingredients you can easily find in your pantry or fridge. Plus, it’s flexible enough to customize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. This dish also reheats wonderfully, making it ideal for leftovers or packed lunches.

If you love dishes like Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil, you’ll appreciate how this recipe brings a creamy twist to the bright tomato flavor you enjoy.

Your Shopping Guide

• 8 ounces pasta of choice: Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully here.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
• 1 pound turkey breast, diced: Look for fresh, high-quality turkey breast.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce’s aroma.
• 1 cup sundried tomatoes, chopped: Choose oil-packed for more flavor, drained before use.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious base of the sauce.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty depth.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish: Adds freshness and color.

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Large pot: For boiling pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook turkey and prepare the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring ingredients without scratching cookware.
• Chef’s knife and cutting board: To chop garlic, sundried tomatoes, and turkey evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Colander: To drain pasta efficiently.

Creamy Sundried Tomato Turkey Pasta: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced turkey breast and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper as it cooks. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Then stir in the chopped sundried tomatoes, letting them warm through and release their flavor.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the garlic and sundried tomatoes. Stir well and let the mixture simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Turkey

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce turns silky smooth. Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Smart Substitutions

• Turkey breast: Swap for chicken breast or thigh meat if preferred.
• Heavy cream: Use full-fat coconut milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter or dairy-free option.
• Sundried tomatoes: Use fresh cherry tomatoes roasted or pan-seared for a fresher flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
• Pasta: Gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables like zucchini noodles work well for different dietary needs.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overcooking the turkey, which can make it dry and tough—keep an eye and remove it once just cooked through.
• Burning garlic by cooking it on too high heat or for too long, resulting in bitterness.
• Not reserving pasta water before draining, which is a helpful trick to adjust sauce consistency.
• Adding cheese too early or on high heat, causing it to clump rather than melt smoothly.

Storage Pro Tips

This Creamy Sundried Tomato Turkey Pasta stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream, milk, or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pasta and sauce, then cool completely before storing in the fridge. Reheat gently with a little added cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add reserved pasta water, broth, or a splash of milk gradually while stirring to reach your preferred sauce consistency.

Can I use ground turkey instead of diced turkey breast?

Yes, ground turkey works well. Brown it thoroughly in the skillet before proceeding with the recipe steps.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Cook pasta in plenty of salted boiling water, stir occasionally while cooking, and toss with a bit of olive oil or sauce immediately after draining.

More from the Kitchen

• Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil – A lighter, tomato-forward pasta perfect for summer nights.
• Turkey Burgers With Tzatziki – Another delicious turkey dish packed with flavor and a refreshing sauce.

The Takeaway

This Creamy Sundried Tomato Turkey Pasta is a simple yet decadent meal that combines lean protein, savory sundried tomatoes, and a luxuriously creamy sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can indulge in a restaurant-worthy dish without the fuss. Try it once, and it will become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation.

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