Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe | Easy & Flavorful

I recently made this ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce recipe, and let me tell you—it’s become a family favorite! The creamy tomato sauce clings perfectly to the tender orzo pasta, and the ground turkey adds a hearty protein boost. If you enjoy creamy dishes, you might also enjoy Cajun Shrimp and Crab Mac and Cheese Recipe for a seafood twist.

I love how easy it is to whip up on busy weeknights without compromising flavor. Every bite is comforting yet light, and the whole kitchen smells amazing while it cooks. After trying this recipe, I can honestly say it’s a keeper for any dinner rotation.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful dish, along with my little tips to get the best results:

• 3 minced garlic cloves – Fresh garlic gives the best aroma; skip pre-minced if you can.
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion – Yellow onions add sweetness; red or white onions work too.
• 1 lb lean ground turkey – Thaw fully if frozen; lean turkey keeps it light.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Blend of basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste; enhances all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Freshly cracked is ideal.
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta – Hold onto sauce beautifully; don’t rinse it.
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce – Canned sauce is convenient and rich in flavor.
• ¾ cup water – Helps cook the orzo without drying it out.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; coconut milk works as a dairy-free option. You can also enjoy a creamy seafood alternative with Creamy Cajun Pepper Salmon Recipe.
• 2 small handfuls of fresh baby spinach – Adds freshness and nutrients.
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts better and tastes superior.

Note: Serves 6

Variations

This recipe is easy to adapt to different tastes or dietary needs:

• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Use gluten-free orzo to make it gluten-free.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Toss in other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Use shredded mozzarella instead of parmesan for a melty twist.

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

• Large skillet or frying pan – For cooking turkey and sauce evenly.
• Wooden spatula – Helps break up meat without scratching the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping garlic and onions.
• Cheese grater – To grate fresh parmesan for optimal flavor.

How to Make Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe?

Fry the Aromatics

Heat a little cooking oil in your pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until translucent. This step releases their sweet, savory flavors, forming the base of the sauce.

Cook the Turkey

Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains and the meat starts browning. I like to drain excess grease using a paper towel for a lighter dish.

Add Pasta and Seasoning

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then toss the uncooked orzo. Cook for a minute to coat the pasta with spices. This helps the orzo absorb more flavor as it simmers.

Simmer in Sauce

Pour in tomato sauce, water, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir often for 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and creamy.

Mix in Spinach and Cheese

Remove from heat and fold in parmesan and baby spinach. Cover for 3–4 minutes to let the cheese melt and the spinach wilt. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

• I always taste and adjust seasoning at the end; it makes a huge difference.
• If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of water to loosen it.
• For firmer orzo, I reduce simmer time to about 8 minutes.
• I love topping it with extra parmesan for a richer flavor.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the tomato flavor beautifully.

How to Serve Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe?

Serve this creamy orzo straight from the pan or in individual bowls. I like to garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for color. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up all the sauce. For a family dinner, adding roasted vegetables makes it extra wholesome.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of this hearty meal per serving:

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 14g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing in the Fridge

Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for 1–2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to prevent sauce separation.

Freezing

Freeze in an airtight container for 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and heat slowly to restore creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or cream to bring the sauce back to its original consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

I can’t stop making this recipe, and here’s why:

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Budget-friendly – Ground turkey and pantry staples keep costs low.
• Flexible – Adapt with veggies, cheese, or dairy-free options.
• Comforting – Creamy, hearty, and flavorful, everyone loves it.
• Versatile – Works for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or casual gatherings.

Ben Carraoli

Ground Turkey Orzo in Tomato Sauce Recipe

I recently made this ground turkey orzo in tomato sauce, and let me tell you—it’s become a family favorite! The creamy tomato sauce clings perfectly to the tender orzo pasta, and the ground turkey adds a hearty protein boost. I love how easy it is to whip up on busy weeknights without compromising flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 minced garlic cloves – Fresh garlic gives the best aroma; skip pre-minced if you can.
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion – Yellow onions add sweetness; red or white onions work too.
• 1 lb lean ground turkey – Thaw fully if frozen; lean turkey keeps it light.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Blend of basil oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste; enhances all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Freshly cracked is ideal.
• 1 cup uncooked orzo pasta – Hold onto sauce beautifully; don’t rinse it.
• 1 can 14 oz tomato sauce – Canned sauce is convenient and rich in flavor.
• ¾ cup water – Helps cook the orzo without drying it out.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy; coconut milk works as a dairy-free option.
• 2 small handfuls of fresh baby spinach – Adds freshness and nutrients.
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated melts better and tastes superior.

Method

 

1. Heat a little cooking oil in your pan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until translucent. This step releases their sweet, savory flavors, forming the base of the sauce.
2. Add ground turkey and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains and the meat starts browning. I like to drain excess grease using a paper towel for a lighter dish.
3. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then toss the uncooked orzo. Cook for a minute to coat the pasta with spices. This helps the orzo absorb more flavor as it simmers.
4. Pour in tomato sauce, water, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir often for 10 minutes until the orzo is tender and creamy.
5. Remove from heat and fold in parmesan and baby spinach. Cover for 3–4 minutes to let the cheese melt and the spinach wilt. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Notes

• I always taste and adjust seasoning at the end; it makes a huge difference.
• If the sauce thickens too much, I add a splash of water to loosen it.
• For firmer orzo, I reduce simmer time to about 8 minutes.
• I love topping it with extra parmesan for a richer flavor.
• Adding a squeeze of lemon juice brightens the tomato flavor beautifully.