One-Pot Lemon Dill Turkey Pasta with Peas

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner that comes together in a single pot? This One-Pot Lemon Dill Turkey Pasta with Peas is exactly what you need. Combining the light, zesty brightness of lemon with the fresh herbaceous notes of dill, tender ground turkey, and sweet peas, all tossed with wholesome whole wheat pasta, this dish is a weeknight game-changer. It’s easy to prepare, minimal on cleanup, and packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will love. Plus, it offers a balanced meal with protein, veggies, and whole grains in one satisfying bowl.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This recipe earns its place in your dinner rotation for several reasons. First, the one-pot method saves you time and effort, making it perfect for busy evenings. You cook the ground turkey and garlic right in the pot before adding broth, lemon, and pasta to simmer everything together — no need for multiple pans or complicated steps. Second, it’s wholesome and hearty thanks to the whole wheat pasta, which adds fiber and nutrients. Third, the lemon and dill combo brings a fresh, bright flavor that elevates the dish without relying on heavy creams or sauces. The peas add a pop of sweetness and color, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.

If you enjoy recipes like Brown Sugar Garlic Turkey Tenderloin or crave simple comfort foods such as Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs With Rice, this pasta fits right in with its easy prep and satisfying taste. It’s a brilliant way to bring wholesome ingredients to your table with minimal fuss.

What to Buy

• 8 ounces whole wheat pasta – Choose your favorite shape like penne, fusilli, or rotini for great texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the turkey and garlic.
• 1 pound ground turkey – A lean protein base that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic depth.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Use low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
• 1 lemon – You’ll need both zest and juice for bright citrus notes.
• 1 teaspoon dried dill – The signature herb that pairs beautifully with lemon and turkey.
• 1 cup frozen peas – Sweet, vibrant, and easy to add straight from the freezer.
• Salt and black pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Optional, for serving and an extra layer of flavor.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid – Essential for the one-pot cooking method.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring and sautéing.
• Microplane or fine grater – To zest the lemon perfectly.
• Citrus juicer (optional) – Makes juicing the lemon easier.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.

One-Pot Lemon Dill Turkey Pasta with Peas Made Stepwise

Step 1: Sauté the Turkey and Garlic

Heat the olive oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s no longer pink — about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.

Step 2: Add Liquids, Lemon, and Dill

Pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Sprinkle in the dried dill and give everything a good stir. This combination will infuse the turkey with fresh, zesty flavor that’s unmistakable.

Step 3: Stir in Pasta and Simmer

Add the whole wheat pasta to the pot, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cover with the lid. Let the pasta cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Peas and Finish Cooking

After about 8 minutes of simmering, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll cook quickly in the hot liquid, turning tender and vibrant green. Continue to simmer until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid has absorbed — about 2 more minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste the pasta and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If you like, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top for a savory finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy your wholesome, zesty meal!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

• Replace ground turkey with plant-based ground meat alternatives – Choose a soy or pea protein-based option for a similar texture.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth – Keeps the dish flavorful and plant-friendly.
• Add extra peas, spinach, or artichoke hearts – Boost the veggie content and texture.
• Omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative – To keep it dairy-free and vegan.

Avoid These Mistakes

• Overcooking the pasta: Since the pasta simmers in broth, keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or mushiness.

• Burning the garlic: Add garlic after the turkey starts to brown to avoid bitter burnt flavors.

• Skipping the lemon zest: The zest brings essential aromatic oils that brighten the whole dish, so don’t leave it out.

• Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to balance the flavors perfectly.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the pasta and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent drying out.

Ask & Learn

Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat?

Absolutely! While whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and nutrients, regular pasta works just as well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions since different pastas may vary.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat pasta with a gluten-free variety. Just be mindful that gluten-free pasta sometimes requires slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on texture as it simmers.

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?

Fresh dill is a wonderful choice and will add an even brighter, herbaceous note. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill in place of 1 teaspoon dried, adding it toward the end of cooking to preserve its delicate flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

For a touch of heat, try adding red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic and turkey. Alternatively, a dash of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce before serving can easily kick up the spice level.

You Might Also Like

• One Pot Chicken And Rice Pilaf – Another simple, one-pot meal loaded with comforting flavors and easy prep.
• Brown Sugar Garlic Turkey Tenderloin – A sweet and savory turkey recipe that’s perfect for special dinners.
• Garlic Butter Turkey Meatballs With Rice – Juicy meatballs in a rich garlic butter sauce served over fluffy rice.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Lemon Dill Turkey Pasta with Peas is the epitome of easy weeknight cooking done right. Its bright lemon and dill flavors paired with lean protein and wholesome whole wheat pasta make it a balanced and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on taste. The one-pot method means less mess and more time to relax after dinner. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is a keeper. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent place on your dinner menu.

Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors and simple prep of this delicious dish — your new favorite pasta night staple is here!

Share on Pinterest