How can Thanksgiving already be next week? Now is the time everyone is gearing up for the big turkey day. But what you might not be thinking about is what else to eat for dinner next week before the big day. The key is to keep it super easy and simple. That is where this easy weeknight recipe for pasta with turkey and broccoli comes in. It is so easy and takes less than 20 minutes. Exactly what you want in the days before Thanksgiving! It is the definition of your classic easy weeknight recipe.
Pasta with Turkey and Broccoli
Ingredients
- 1 box pasta choose your favorite shape!
- 12 oz broccoli florets I just use the bagged precut broccoli florets for ease and use the whole bag
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tsp fennel seed found in the spice section
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- salt
- pepper
- parmesan
Instructions
- Boil large pot of water with salt.
- Cook pasta according to instructions on box.
- When there is 1-2 minutes left on the pasta cooking, add the broccoli into the boiling water.
- Drain pasta and broccoli and return to pot.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the turkey, garlic, fennel, red pepper, garlic powder and salt.
- Cook ground turkey until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
- When turkey is cooked, add it to the pot with the pasta and broccoli. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and ground pepper to taste.
- Serve topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
I stumbled upon this recipe years ago from Real Simple and have since adapted it slightly to my own personal preference. I use whatever shape of pasta I have on hand. And you can use a variety of different vegetables in place of broccoli such as asparagus, spinach, cauliflower, green beans, etc. It is my go-to for nights I want to keep it quick, simple, filling and minimal clean up. Also, if you aren’t grating your parmesan with this then you aren’t living right! It is go to favorite kitchen tool.
What is your go-to quick and easy recipe for weeknights?
If you are looking for a super easy side dish for Thanksgiving then look no further than here. This simple side dish is always a crowd pleaser.