Pasta with Turkey Sausage and Peas
The ultimate comfort food, Pasta with Turkey Sausage and Peas is a creamy, savory delight that combines tender pasta with lean turkey sausage and sweet peas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart.
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Grater
Ingredients
- 1 pound short dried DeLallo pasta such as orecchiette, penne, or shells
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic pressed or minced
- 1 28-ounce can crushed DeLallo San Marzano tomatoes
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves plus more for garnish, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup half and half
- 2 cups frozen peas
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions, less 2 minutes cooking time so the pasta is ideal dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, fennel seeds, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper and red pepper flakes. Use a wooden spoon to break up the turkey meat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring, until cooked through and browned.
- Stir in the onion and garlic and cook until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes and basil then season with the kosher salt and black pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes then stir in the half and half and frozen peas, then cook for 5 minutes.
- Toss the penne noodles with the sauce and top with the Parmesan cheese and more fresh basil.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the sauce separately from the pasta for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Tip 4: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Tip 5: Consider using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option that still provides that comforting taste.