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If you're in search of a dish that tantalizes your taste buds while providing a nutritious meal, look no further than Spicy Turkey Delight: Creamy Cajun Pasta. This recipe beautifully marries the rich and bold flavors characteristic of Cajun cuisine with the wholesome goodness of ground turkey and fresh vegetables. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table.

Creamy Cajun Pasta with Turkey

Indulge in the bold flavors of Spicy Turkey Delight: Creamy Cajun Pasta, a satisfying dish that combines lean ground turkey with vibrant vegetables and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe showcases the essence of Cajun cuisine, featuring aromatic spices and colorful ingredients that not only make it delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this pasta dish is sure to impress with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Dive into this culinary experience today!
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Ingredients
  

8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

1 lb ground turkey

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup spinach leaves (fresh or frozen)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

    Brown the Turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Add Spices and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine. Then, add the drained diced tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

          Make It Creamy: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Mix well until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. If it appears too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

            Combine Everything: Return the browned turkey to the skillet, stirring until it’s well coated in the creamy sauce. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

              Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.

                Serve: Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 4 servings