Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne and cook for 8-10 minutes until just shy of al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add ground turkey to the skillet. Break up with a wooden spoon and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned with no pink remaining. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour evenly over the turkey and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add tomato sauce and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add drained penne to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce. Pour in half-and-half and stir gently. Add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in half of the mozzarella and cheddar, folding gently until melted. Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let sit for 2 minutes off the heat.
- Remove lid and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and red chili flakes if using. Serve immediately while hot and cheese is still gooey.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Freezing not recommended for cream-based pasta.
Substitutions: Use ground chicken instead of turkey. Replace half-and-half with equal parts milk and heavy cream. Substitute gluten-free pasta and cornstarch for a gluten-free version.
Make-Ahead: Cook turkey and sauce ahead, store separately from pasta. Combine and add cheese when ready to serve.
Serving: Pairs well with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
