Tex-Mex Ground Turkey with Creamy Penne
Southwestern Spiced Turkey & Creamy Penne Pasta Fiesta
Ingredients:
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb ground turkey
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
2 tbsp taco seasoning
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Sliced avocado, for serving (optional)
Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Directions:
Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add ground turkey and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove turkey from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, then add diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and add taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Stir to coat the meat and vegetables with spices.
Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, and corn. Stir to combine.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro, sliced avocado, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 520 kcal | Servings: 6 servings