One Simple Way to Use Ground Turkey and Mushrooms

Lean protein and earthy umami come together in a weeknight dish that feels both comforting and light.

Ground turkey and mushrooms are a natural pair—one brings lean, mild protein to the table while the other adds depth and savory richness. Together, they create something greater than the sum of their parts, especially when tossed with pasta and a handful of peppers. It's the kind of dish that comes together on a busy night without any fuss.

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Ground Turkey and Mushroom Pasta

Total Time: 25 minutes • Serves: 4

A quick and savory pasta dish featuring seasoned ground turkey, sautéed mushrooms, and bell peppers in a simple tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that's both satisfying and flavorful.

Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
12 oz pasta
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook pasta according to package directions in salted boiling water; drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
Add minced garlic to the turkey and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add sliced mushrooms and diced bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for 4-5 minutes until vegetables soften.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
Combine the cooked pasta with the turkey and vegetable sauce, tossing gently to coat.
Serve in bowls topped with Parmesan cheese.

Quick Variations

Lighter Option

Skip the cream and use a bright tomato-based sauce or white wine reduction to let the turkey and mushrooms shine without heaviness.

Hearty Option

Add a splash of cream or a touch of butter to deepen the sauce, and finish with fresh herbs and a generous grating of Parmesan for extra comfort.

Vegetarian or Flexible Option

Replace the ground turkey with mushrooms alone or add lentils for a plant-forward version that keeps all the savory satisfaction.

Simple Substitutions

Protein Substitutes

Ground chicken
Ground beef
Italian sausage
Crumbled tofu
Shredded rotisserie chicken

Carb Substitutes

Rice
Polenta
Couscous
Farro
Egg noodles
Zucchini noodles

Flavor Boosters

Garlic and fresh thyme
Red pepper flakes and oregano
Balsamic vinegar
Fresh sage
Lemon zest
Smoked paprika

Common Questions

Should I cook the mushrooms separately?

You can, but browning them with the ground turkey saves a step and lets them absorb the meat's flavor. Cook them until they release their moisture and begin to caramelize.

What type of mushrooms work best?

Cremini, baby bella, and button mushrooms are reliable choices. Cremini and bella offer more flavor and a meatier texture that pairs well with ground turkey.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes—the turkey and mushroom mixture actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Refrigerate separately from the pasta and combine when reheating to keep everything fresh.