• May 24, 2023
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Skillet Pasta Dinner

Introducing our delightful Skillet Pasta Dinner! This quick and flavorful one-pot meal is guaranteed to satisfy the whole family. With a delicious combination of ground meat, aromatic onions and garlic, tender pasta, and rich tomato sauce, this dish is both comforting and convenient.

• 6 ingredients
• 40 minutes
• 6 Servings

Ingredients

1/2 pound ground turkey, 85% lean (or ground sausage or beef)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced (approximately 1 teaspoon)
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 cup water
8 ounces uncooked tube pasta (ziti, penne, or macaroni)

Directions

1. Heat a skillet or heavy saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add ground meat, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and uncooked pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together.
4. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is partially cooked.
5. Continue cooking uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. This usually takes about 10 more minutes.
6. Once the pasta and vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the skillet from heat.
7. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.
8. Serve hot and enjoy your Skillet Pasta Dinner!

Notes

Choose your preferred meat: Feel free to use ground turkey, sausage, or beef based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Each option brings its own unique flavors to the dish.

Sauté the onions and garlic: Take a few extra minutes to sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and slightly caramelized. This step adds depth of flavor to your dish.

Seasoning options: Experiment with different herbs and spices to elevate the taste of your skillet pasta. Italian seasoning, dried basil, oregano, or red pepper flakes can add a burst of flavor.

Don't overcook the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta's cooking time to ensure it doesn't become mushy. Follow the recommended cooking time on the pasta package as a general guideline.

Add a splash of broth or wine: For an extra layer of richness, you can deglaze the skillet with a splash of chicken or vegetable broth, or even a bit of white wine before adding the tomato sauce and water. This can enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Incorporate the vegetables: Feel free to use your favorite fresh or frozen vegetables. Bell peppers, broccoli, peas, or corn can be delicious additions. Just ensure that the vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed to suit your personal taste.

Garnish and serve: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), or a drizzle of olive oil over the finished dish to add a final touch of flavor and presentation.

Nutrition Detail