Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe

If you’re like me and love a cozy, comforting dinner that’s a little different from the usual chicken Alfredo, you’re going to adore this Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover turkey or just want a rich, flavorful weeknight meal, this recipe hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender turkey and peas. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe really shines through with a simple yet flavorful list of ingredients. Everything works together to create that silky pasta experience, with hearty turkey and a pop of sweetness from peas.

• Pasta: I used fettuccine because its wide ribbons carry the sauce beautifully, but you can swap in your favorite pasta.
• Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the seasoning as you cook the sauce base.
• Onion: Just a bit, diced finely for gentle sweetness without overpowering.
• Garlic: Freshly minced to add that aromatic depth that’s a must in Alfredo sauces.
• All-purpose flour: This is your thickening agent, making the sauce wonderfully creamy.
• Nutmeg: Just a tiny pinch brightens the sauce with a subtle warm note.
• Whole milk: Warmed for smooth mixing into the roux without lumps.
• Low sodium turkey or chicken broth: Adds extra savory flavor while keeping it light.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best for that nutty, melty richness.
• Cooked turkey: Cubed, sliced, or shredded; leftover roasted turkey works perfectly here.
• Frozen peas: They add sweetness and a pop of color—plus, they cook quickly right in the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors without overwhelming them.

Variations

I love mixing things up in the kitchen depending on what ingredients I have on hand or my mood. The great thing about this Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe is how flexible it really is, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

• Use Chicken Instead: I sometimes swap turkey for leftover rotisserie chicken when I don’t have turkey around—equally delicious!
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
• Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add an earthy depth I adore during cooler months.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne adds a nice warmth to balance the creamy sauce.

How to Make Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook Pasta Just Right

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook your pasta for about 2 minutes less than the package suggests so it finishes cooking in the sauce. This helps it soak up all that creamy goodness without getting mushy. Before draining, reserve a cup of pasta water—you’ll use this to adjust the sauce later. I learned this little trick is a game-changer for silky Alfredo sauces!

Step 2: Build the Flavorful Base

In a large, wide pan, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion with a pinch of salt and cook until edges start to turn translucent—about 2 minutes. This softens the onion and releases its sweetness. Then, add your minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn, or it’ll turn bitter.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the butter, onion, and garlic mixture, whisking constantly to make a roux. Cook for 2-3 minutes to remove that raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in warm milk first, followed by the broth, making sure no lumps form. Add that pinch of nutmeg plus a bit more salt and pepper. Turn the heat down to low and let the sauce simmer gently—stir occasionally while your pasta finishes cooking.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer your slightly undercooked pasta into the sauce pan along with a ladle of the reserved pasta water. The starchy water helps loosen the sauce so it clings beautifully to every strand. Toss in the Parmesan cheese and frozen peas, stirring gently until the cheese melts and the peas warm through. Keep adding more pasta water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency—creamy but not runny.

Step 5: Add Turkey and Season

Last but not least, fold in your cooked turkey pieces and give everything a good stir so the turkey warms through without drying out. Taste test and add any extra salt or pepper. Serve immediately for the best silky texture. I find this final step really brings it all together—and your house will smell amazing.

How to Serve Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Sometimes I add chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of green and freshness. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top never hurts either—it adds a subtle richness and shine.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad with a tart vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also make a tasty, hearty side. When I’m feeling fancy, garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to plate the pasta in neat nests on warm plates and top with turkey slices arranged like a fan. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can elevate it for entertaining guests. You can even serve it in individual ramekins for a cozy, elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Turkey Alfredo Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so I usually add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing Alfredo pasta can be tricky because cream sauces sometimes separate. But if you want to freeze it, I recommend doing so without the peas and turkey, freezing the sauce and pasta separately, then combining when reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Microwaving works in a pinch, but watch it closely to avoid overheating, which can cause the sauce to separate.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Alfredo Pasta Recipe has become my go-to comfort meal, especially when I want something indulgent but not overly complicated. The creamy sauce paired with tender turkey and peas hits all the right flavors, and it’s perfect for using up leftovers or just treating yourself. I genuinely love how it turns out every time, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy making and sharing it just as much as I do. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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