Pin it One-Pot Creamy Spinach & Turkey Christmas Pasta A festive, comforting pasta dish featuring tender turkey, fresh spinach, and a luxuriously creamy sauce—all made in a single pot for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite during the holidays because it combines comforting flavors with simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Poultry: 350 g (12 oz) cooked turkey breast, shredded or chopped
- Vegetables: 150 g (5 oz) fresh baby spinach, 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) short pasta (penne or fusilli)
- Dairy: 120 ml (½ cup) heavy cream, 60 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Liquids: 750 ml (3 cups) low-sodium chicken or turkey broth, 120 ml (½ cup) milk
- Seasonings: ½ tsp dried thyme, ¼ tsp ground nutmeg, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Extra Parmesan cheese, Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and sauté for 2 3 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add the pasta, broth, milk, thyme, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low. Cover and simmer for 10 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the turkey and spinach. Cook uncovered for 2 3 minutes, until the spinach wilts and turkey is heated through.
- Step 5:
- Lower the heat, add the heavy cream and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Pin it This dish brings our family together every Christmas, sharing warmth and tradition around the table.
Required Tools
Large deep skillet or Dutch oven, Wooden spoon, Measuring cups and spoons, Chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, Parmesan, butter) and gluten (pasta). Parmesan may contain animal rennet use a vegetarian alternative if needed.
Nutritional Information
Calories 545 Total Fat 20 g Carbohydrates 54 g Protein 36 g per serving
Pin it Enjoy this rich and comforting pasta as a festive staple your family will love year after year.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the turkey with other proteins?
Yes, leftover roast chicken works well as an alternative and provides similar texture and flavor.
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Short pastas like penne or fusilli are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce and cook evenly in one pot.
- → How can I make the sauce lighter?
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter yet still creamy consistency.
- → Is there a recommended garnish to complement the flavors?
Chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan add freshness and a savory finish.
- → Can this be prepared in advance?
The dish is best served fresh but can be refrigerated and gently reheated; you may need to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.