If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful dinner that comes together effortlessly, this Creamy Tuscan Turkey Penne is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy turkey breast, vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy sauce, it delivers all the comfort of an Italian classic with a lighter, wholesome twist. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining friends, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. The combination of tender penne pasta and a rich, herb-infused sauce makes every bite a delight. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special and how you can whip it up in no time!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Speedy and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights when time is tight.
Wholesome Ingredients: Lean turkey breast and fresh veggies keep this pasta both hearty and healthy.
Rich and Creamy: The heavy cream combined with Parmesan cheese creates an indulgent sauce without being overly heavy.
Vibrant Flavors: The Italian seasoning and fresh basil add an aromatic, Mediterranean touch.
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup means less time in the kitchen and more time at the table.
Customizable: Easy to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes.

What’s in the Bowl

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

8 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing and flavor
1 pound turkey breast, diced – lean protein to keep things light
3 cloves garlic, minced – adds a lovely aromatic base
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – juicy bursts of sweetness
1 cup spinach leaves – fresh greens for color and nutrients
1 cup heavy cream – creates the luscious sauce
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a nutty, savory kick
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that brings it all together
Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning to balance flavors
Fresh basil leaves for garnish – adds brightness and a pop of color

Equipment at a Glance

Large pot – to cook the pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the turkey and sauce
Colander – to drain the pasta
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredients precise

Make Creamy Tuscan Turkey Penne: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Turkey

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced turkey breast and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften and start to release their juices.

Step 4: Add the Greens and Cream

Add the spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked turkey to the skillet, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Budget & Availability Swaps

Pasta: If penne isn’t available, rigatoni or farfalle work beautifully.
Turkey: Ground turkey or chicken breast can be swapped in for diced turkey breast.
Heavy Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative that still delivers creaminess.
Cheese: Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a vegan twist.
Greens: Kale or Swiss chard can stand in for spinach if you prefer a heartier green.

Method to the Madness

This recipe is all about layering flavors with minimal fuss. First, the turkey provides a lean, meaty base that absorbs the garlic and herb notes beautifully. When the cherry tomatoes and spinach join the pan, they add bursts of freshness and color. The magic happens when heavy cream and Parmesan cheese meld together to create a silky sauce that clings to the penne pasta. The key is to not rush the cooking times — letting the tomatoes soften and the sauce simmer gently builds depth without overwhelming the tender turkey. This recipe is a wonderful balance of creamy, savory, and bright flavors that come together in perfect harmony.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep it creamy and smooth. This dish also freezes well; freeze in portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Quick Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of diced turkey breast?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and cooks faster. Just brown it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, though the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the turkey and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. You can also use plant-based protein substitutes.

What pasta shapes work best?

Penne is ideal because its tubular shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, but other shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle are great alternatives.

Similar Recipes

Pasta With Peas – A fresh, green pasta dish that’s simple and satisfying.
Caramelized Onion Turkey Burger Sliders – Perfect for a flavorful turkey twist in slider form.

Before You Go

Don’t forget to garnish your Creamy Tuscan Turkey Penne with fresh basil for that final burst of flavor and color—it truly elevates the dish. This recipe is great for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort. If you love this, be sure to experiment with different herbs or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Cooking is all about making a recipe your own!

With its rich, creamy sauce, tender turkey, and fresh veggies, this Creamy Tuscan Turkey Penne is a comforting meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Get ready for a pasta night that’s bursting with flavor and easy to love.

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