My kids are usually picky about vegetables, but they love peas in this pasta because they’re small, sweet, and mix perfectly with the creamy sauce.Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta is one of those dishes that makes weeknight dinners feel cozy and special at the same time. In every bite, they enjoy the soft pasta, tender turkey, and the smooth, cheesy creaminess, and I feel good knowing they’re eating something balanced.

It’s rich, creamy, and packed with protein from turkey, plus the sweetness of peas adds a gentle pop of color and flavor. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, making every bite comforting and satisfying. This recipe is quick enough for a busy evening but still feels homemade and hearty, perfect for families.

I have tried many pasta recipes over the years, but I use this one often because it’s simple, filling, and doesn’t require many steps. Always, I keep a little chicken broth on hand to adjust the sauce and some Parmesan for that finishing touch, which makes the pasta extra creamy and flavorful.

You can serve Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta on its own for a satisfying dinner, some fresh green salad on the side, also with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls. It makes a complete, comforting meal that both adults and kids love.

Its Perfect For:

• Busy weeknight dinners when time is short.
• Family meals where everyone enjoys pasta.
• Comfort food cravings on chilly evenings.
• Quick lunch or dinner prep for workdays.
• When you want a creamy, cheesy dish without fuss.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite)
• 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Cheese grater
• Colander for draining pasta

How to Make Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta

Step 1

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside. Keeping some pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency later.

Step 2

Cook the turkey: While pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3

Brown the meat: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs as it cooks, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.

Step 4

Add peas and liquids: Stir in the frozen peas, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 4–5 minutes until the peas are tender and the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 5

Incorporate pasta and cheese: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6

Serve: Divide the creamy pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the rich creaminess combined with tender turkey and sweet pops of peas.

Tips for Perfect Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta

• Cook pasta al dente: Make sure to slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes cooking in the sauce and doesn’t become mushy.
• Use fresh herbs: Adding a pinch of parsley or thyme brightens the creamy sauce and adds a fresh aroma.
• Reserve pasta water: A splash of reserved water helps loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Brown the turkey well: Proper browning adds flavor and depth to the dish.
• Add peas at the right time: Stir them in toward the end so they stay tender but don’t overcook and lose their color.
• Adjust creaminess: Use more or less cream depending on how rich you want the sauce.
• Taste as you go: Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or cheese to balance flavors perfectly.

Optional Ingredients

• Mushrooms, sliced, for earthy flavor
• Spinach, added at the end for extra greens
• Sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, for tanginess
• Red pepper flakes, for a slight heat
• Cream cheese, for an extra creamy texture
• Lemon zest, to brighten the flavor

How to Serve Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta

I usually serve this pasta straight from the skillet for a casual family dinner. The creamy sauce clings to each piece of pasta, making it rich and indulgent. I like to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a little chopped parsley on top—it makes the dish look fresh and inviting. For kids, I sometimes arrange the pasta neatly on a plate with a fun garnish like small tomato halves or a drizzle of olive oil to make it more playful.

I also enjoy plating it nicely for guests or a small dinner party. Using shallow bowls helps keep the sauce contained, and I often place a slice of garlic bread or a soft dinner roll on the side to scoop up the creamy sauce. Adding a light green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness and adds color to the plate, making the meal feel more complete.

I sometimes like to add small finishing touches to elevate the presentation. A few freshly cracked black peppercorns, a tiny sprinkle of chili flakes, or even a drizzle of good quality olive oil can make it feel like a restaurant-quality dish. You can also serve it family-style on a large platter for a communal meal, letting everyone help themselves while keeping the sauce creamy and warm.

Is Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta Healthy?

Yes, this pasta can be healthy if made with lean ground turkey and controlled amounts of cream. Turkey is high in protein and low in fat, while peas provide fiber, vitamins, and a hint of sweetness.

By controlling the cheese and cream portions and pairing with vegetables or a salad, you can enjoy a comforting meal that is balanced and nourishing. It’s a wholesome way to enjoy pasta without feeling guilty.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken and Broccoli: Swap turkey with cooked chicken and peas with broccoli. Keeps the creamy sauce the same.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace turkey with chickpeas or tofu. Add more vegetables for flavor.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular for extra fiber and nutrition.
• Low-Fat Cream: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt for lighter sauce.
• Cheese Variations: Try cheddar or Gruyère instead of Parmesan for different richness.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering.
• Garlic Lovers: Increase garlic to 4 cloves or roast it for sweetness and depth.
• One-Pot Version: Cook pasta directly in the sauce for a faster, easier cleanup method.

How to Store, How to Reheat

Store leftover Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pasta is cooled before covering to keep it fresh. Avoid freezing cream-heavy sauces as texture may change.

To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent sauce from separating. Serve immediately once heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta

Can I make this pasta ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the turkey in advance, then store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and toss it with the reheated sauce for the best texture. This method keeps the pasta from becoming mushy and ensures the sauce stays creamy.

Can I use frozen turkey?
You can use frozen turkey, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Frozen meat releases extra liquid, which can thin out the sauce. If using frozen, cook slowly, drain excess liquid, and adjust cream or broth to maintain a rich, creamy consistency.

Is it okay to use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, rigatoni, shells, or even spaghetti will all work with this sauce. Pasta with ridges or tubes helps the sauce cling better, giving a creamier bite in every forkful. Smooth pasta works fine too, but the sauce may slide off slightly.

Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, adding extra vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. You can include mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots. Cook them slightly before adding the sauce so they stay tender but not mushy, and chop uniformly for even cooking.

Turkey and Pea Creamy Pasta Recipe

Recipe by Maria MeyerCourse: Main DishCuisine: Italian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Learn how to make creamy Turkey and Pea Pasta, a quick and comforting weeknight meal packed with protein and flavor. Easy, family-friendly, and full of tips, variations, and serving ideas.

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, fusilli, or your favorite)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground turkey

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

• Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside. Keeping some pasta water helps adjust the sauce consistency later.
• Cook the turkey: While pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Brown the meat: Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs as it cooks, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
• Add peas and liquids: Stir in the frozen peas, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 4–5 minutes until the peas are tender and the sauce slightly thickens.
• Incorporate pasta and cheese: Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
• Serve: Divide the creamy pasta among plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm, enjoying the rich creaminess combined with tender turkey and sweet pops of peas.