Quick & Delicious One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti Recipe
One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti isn’t just another weeknight meal. It’s a total game-changer. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful pasta dish on the table—with only one pot to wash. Trust me, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a homemade dinner without the fuss.
What makes this dish so magical? It all comes together in a single pot, from browning the ground turkey to cooking the pasta. There’s no need to boil noodles separately or create a mountain of dishes. Plus, it’s lighter and healthier than your traditional spaghetti, thanks to lean ground turkey. Let me show you how this easy spaghetti dinner can save your weeknights!

Why This One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti Is a Game-Changer
- Saves Time: Traditional spaghetti can take 45 minutes, but this recipe cuts that down to just 30 minutes.
- Fewer Dishes to Clean: Skip the separate pots for sauce and pasta—everything cooks in one pot.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once everything is in the pot, a gentle simmer does the work while you relax.
- Healthy and Hearty: Using lean ground turkey makes this a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect for Families: This one’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters love!
Equipment You’ll Need for This One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Large Dutch Oven or Pot: A heavy 5–7 quart pot works best to evenly cook the pasta and sauce. Bonus points if it has a tight-fitting lid!
- Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring the pasta and preventing clumps.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: For precise results.
If you don’t already have a Dutch oven, look for a budget-friendly option online. A good pot makes all the difference for one pot meals for families.
Simple Ingredients for One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti
This recipe keeps it simple and pantry-friendly. Here are the key players:
- Lean Ground Turkey: A lighter choice than ground beef, it soaks up all the savory flavors beautifully.
- Spaghetti: Regular spaghetti works great, but feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free varieties.
- Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jar of marinara is a time-saver! Opt for one with simple, fresh ingredients.
- Balsamic Vinegar: This little splash adds depth and enhances the sauce’s natural sweetness.
Tip: You can swap ground turkey for ground chicken or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti Recipe Details
- Servings: 4 servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 3 cups marinara (24-ounce jar)
- 2 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- 8 ounces spaghetti, broken in half
How to Make One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti
- Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Brown the ground turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir and break it up as it cooks, about 7 minutes.
- Add garlic and onion to the pot, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Break the spaghetti in half and layer it into the pot in small handfuls, alternating directions to prevent clumping. Push the pasta into the liquid without stirring.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 13–15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to avoid sticking.
- Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to absorb the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or grated cheese. Enjoy!
Jake’s Tips for the Best One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use tongs to gently toss the pasta as it cooks to prevent clumping.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for easy meal prep!
Easy One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan at the end.
- Spicy Kick: Swap Italian seasoning for Cajun spice or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Whole Grain: Use whole wheat spaghetti for a fiber-packed twist.
One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Just drain any excess grease after browning the ground beef.
How do I prevent the pasta from clumping?
Break the spaghetti into smaller pieces and layer it in alternating directions. Stir every 5 minutes during cooking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap regular spaghetti for your favorite gluten-free brand.
What if my sauce turns out too watery?
Let the spaghetti simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.
This One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal. What’s your go-to kitchen shortcut? Let me know in the comments below!

One Pot Ground Turkey Spaghetti
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Brown the ground turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir and break it up as it cooks, about 7 minutes.
- Add garlic and onion to the pot, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Stir to combine.
- Break the spaghetti in half and layer it into the pot in small handfuls, alternating directions to prevent clumping. Push the pasta into the liquid without stirring.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 13–15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to avoid sticking.
- Once the pasta is tender, turn off the heat and let it sit for 2–3 minutes to absorb the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley or grated cheese. Enjoy!
Notes
Written by Jake
Hi, I’m Jake — the home cook behind Kitchen Shortcuts. I create easy crockpot meals and slow cooker recipes designed for busy families who want flavorful home-cooked food with less effort.
