One Pot Creamy Turkey Sausage Pasta
Introduction
Turkey sausage pasta is the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing meal that turns a regular weeknight into something special. With bold flavor, a creamy sauce, and just one pot, it’s both satisfying and easy to clean up. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish hits every mark—quick, comforting, and endlessly customizable. In this article, you’ll learn how to make turkey sausage pasta step by step, how to tweak it to fit your preferences, and how to store it for later without sacrificing flavor. Let’s make this your new go-to pasta recipe.
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One Pot Creamy Turkey Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 1x
Description
Creamy, one-pot turkey sausage pasta loaded with flavor from browned sausage, garlic, tomatoes, and cheese. A perfect weeknight dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add turkey sausage and cook until browned (about 4–5 minutes).
2. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
5. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer on low for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
You can substitute milk or half-and-half for cream. Add spinach or roasted red peppers for extra vegetables. Great for meal prep or freezing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
The Story Behind My Turkey Sausage Pasta Obsession
How I fell in love with turkey sausage pasta in Italy
There’s a small village in the Tuscan hills where my journey with turkey sausage pasta truly began. I was staying with my partner just outside Florence, and one rainy afternoon, our neighbor—a sprightly nonna named Graziella—invited us in for lunch. Her dish was simple: a rustic skillet full of rotini, sausage, and cream with herbs snipped fresh from her windowsill.
But the flavor? It was unforgettable. That pasta was layered, soulful, and comforting. It stuck with me. Back in the U.S., I tried to recreate it—but with my own twist: leaner, everyday ingredients like turkey sausage, pantry staples, and one-pot convenience. After plenty of trial and error (including a memorable garlic-scorching incident), I landed on this version. It’s not hers—but it’s become mine.
This turkey sausage pasta is what I reach for when I want something that feels like home. It’s nostalgic, nourishing, and built for real life—ready in under 30 minutes, satisfying, and deeply flavorful.
If you like new and delicious recipes, I advise you to try Ground Beef Sweet Potato Broccoli Bowl or Sweet Potato Hot Honey Taco Bowl.
Why turkey sausage pasta works so well every single time
Let’s be honest. Dinner recipes that check all the boxes—fast, filling, full of flavor—don’t come around every day. But turkey sausage pasta delivers all three with style. It’s hearty but not heavy. Creamy but balanced. And thanks to the sausage, it packs a ton of flavor without needing a long ingredient list.
Short pastas like penne or rotini trap the sauce in every curve, while turkey sausage adds a rich, savory kick that keeps the whole dish grounded. Unlike pork sausage, it keeps things lighter, making this a dish you’ll feel good about serving on repeat.
This recipe has the same one-pot magic as my Creamy Chicken and Sausage Pasta and the tangy twist of Lemon Sausage Pasta—and it all comes together without dirtying your whole kitchen.
Whether it’s your first time making turkey sausage pasta or it’s already a favorite, this version promises all the comfort and flavor you crave—without the fuss.
What Goes into a Perfect Turkey Sausage Pasta
Turkey sausage pasta essentials: Your ingredient lineup
The beauty of turkey sausage pasta is that it doesn’t need anything fancy to taste amazing. This dish is built on ingredients you probably already have—each one playing its part in the creamy, savory finish. You’ll need:
- Turkey sausage: I prefer smoked or Italian-style. It gives the dish depth while keeping it lighter than pork.
- Pasta: Penne or rotini work best here—they grab the sauce and keep each bite satisfying.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics create a flavorful base.
- Chicken broth and heavy cream: They work together to cook the pasta and form a rich, silky sauce.
- Diced tomatoes: Add a little acidity and texture, balancing out the cream.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan: These cheeses melt into the sauce for that irresistible stretch and sharp bite.
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: Simple but effective.
This is the kind of recipe where measuring doesn’t have to be perfect—especially if you’ve already made Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or Sausage Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. You’ll know when it feels right.
Smart swaps to make your turkey sausage pasta your own
One of the best things about turkey sausage pasta is how adaptable it is. Don’t have heavy cream? Use whole milk or half-and-half, though your sauce will be a little thinner (but still tasty). No penne? Farfalle or even elbow macaroni will do.
Want more veggies? Toss in spinach during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Want a smoky kick? Add a pinch of paprika or substitute in andouille-style turkey sausage—great for fans of Cajun Smoked Sausage Pasta.
Dairy-free? Use plant-based mozzarella and coconut cream. Gluten-free? Use chickpea or rice-based pasta. Just adjust cook times slightly to prevent mushy texture.
And if you’re cooking for spice lovers, red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning can transform this into something closer to Spicy Cajun Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta in just one shake.
However you personalize it, this turkey sausage pasta gives you a forgiving base to build on—making it one of those rare recipes that always works, no matter what’s in your fridge.
Step-by-Step – How to Make Turkey Sausage Pasta the Easy Way
Cooking turkey sausage pasta starts with building flavor
Making turkey sausage pasta in one pot means everything—from browning the sausage to melting the cheese—builds on the last step. Start with a large pot or deep skillet. Add a bit of olive oil and heat over medium.
Slice your turkey sausage into coins, then sear them until browned on both sides—about 4–5 minutes. Browning is key. It deepens the flavor and adds those little golden bits at the bottom of the pan (don’t wipe them away—those are liquid gold).
Next, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant—just a few minutes. This builds a savory base that anchors the creaminess later on. If the sausage released a lot of oil, feel free to drain a little off—but keep enough to coat the aromatics.
At this point, it smells like dinner’s already done. But we’re just getting started.
Simmer pasta, melt cheese, and finish with creamy comfort
Once your onions and garlic are tender, stir in the pasta (uncooked), chicken broth, heavy cream, and drained diced tomatoes. Bring it to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce heat, cover, and simmer.
Cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb liquid and release starch, creating a naturally thick sauce. That’s the one-pot magic.
When the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has reduced, stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. The cheeses melt right into the sauce, giving you a silky texture that clings to every bite.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If it looks a bit thick, splash in a little broth or cream to loosen it up.
Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes, just until it looks glossy and creamy. That’s it—you’ve just made a stunning turkey sausage pasta with no need for multiple pots or fancy equipment.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. The herbaceous hit brings the whole dish to life, just like in my go-to One-Pot Smoky Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta or the more classic Cajun Pasta with Smoked Sausage.
Now you’re ready to plate up and impress—whether it’s just another Tuesday or you’ve got friends dropping in for dinner.
Serving Turkey Sausage Pasta and Making It Truly Yours
How to serve turkey sausage pasta for maximum comfort
When it comes to plating up turkey sausage pasta, you don’t need much else—but a few thoughtful sides or garnishes can turn it into a full-on comfort feast. I like to serve mine in shallow bowls, family-style, with some crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness. If you’re going for more heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes does the trick. And for the cheese lovers (you know who you are), an extra shower of grated Parmesan right before serving is never a bad idea.
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or some sautéed greens if you want to balance the richness. As for drinks? A glass of dry white wine or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the sausage and tomato base beautifully.
If you’re a fan of pasta with smoky notes, you might also enjoy Cajun Smoked Sausage Pasta on your next dinner night. It brings similar comfort but with that irresistible smoky depth.
Leftovers, storage, and ways to repurpose turkey sausage pasta
Leftovers of turkey sausage pasta hold up surprisingly well, which makes this a great meal-prep option for busy weeks. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring the sauce back to life, especially if it’s thickened in the fridge.
You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just know that the texture of the pasta may soften a bit upon reheating—but the flavor stays fantastic.
Want to give your leftovers a new twist? Reheat and toss with steamed spinach or roasted red peppers for added veg. Or turn it into a baked pasta: place leftovers in a small casserole dish, top with extra mozzarella and a few breadcrumbs, and broil for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbling.
And if you’re already dreaming about your next pasta night, try something like Shrimp Sausage and Chicken Pasta for a seafood spin or Lemon Sausage Pasta for something bright and citrusy.
Whatever your mood, turkey sausage pasta adapts, satisfies, and stores like a champ. It’s the kind of recipe that earns its spot in your dinner rotation—and keeps it.
FAQs About Turkey Sausage Pasta
How can I make turkey sausage pasta from scratch?
Start by browning sliced turkey sausage in olive oil, then sauté diced onions and garlic until soft. Add dry pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes directly into the same pot. Simmer everything until the pasta is tender. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan, season to taste, and serve warm. It’s one-pot and ready in about 30 minutes.
Can I use other types of sausage instead of turkey?
Yes! You can substitute turkey sausage with chicken sausage, pork sausage, or plant-based options. Just note that pork sausage will produce more fat, which can change the richness of the sauce. Adjust your seasoning if switching types, especially if you’re using spicy or smoked versions.
How do I make it healthier without losing flavor?
To lighten it up, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the cheese slightly. Choose a whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber. You can also add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients without compromising taste.
Is turkey sausage pasta freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze it. Let the pasta cool completely, store it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to revive the creamy texture. Avoid overcooking to prevent the pasta from turning mushy.
Conclusion
When it comes to fast, flavorful, and comforting dinners, turkey sausage pasta checks every box. It’s rich without being heavy, customizable without complication, and completely satisfying—even for picky eaters. Whether you’re cooking on a budget, feeding a family, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish earns its place in your rotation.
The one-pot method makes cleanup easy, and the flavor is anything but basic. With a creamy tomato base, browned sausage, and just the right amount of cheesy goodness, you get a dish that tastes like it simmered for hours—ready in just 30 minutes.
Now that you know exactly how to make turkey sausage pasta step-by-step, you’re ready to turn ordinary ingredients into something truly delicious. And trust me—once you make it, you’ll be craving it again and again.
