Turkey & Mushroom Alfredo Penne Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy pasta dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Turkey & Mushroom Alfredo Penne is the ultimate cozy dinner, perfect for a quiet weeknight, a casual family gathering, or even a small celebration at home. The combination of tender turkey, earthy mushrooms, and rich Alfredo sauce creates a harmonious flavor that satisfies both the heart and the palate.

This recipe was inspired by the tradition of turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s reminiscent of Italian-American classics, where creamy sauces meet fresh ingredients to create an unforgettable meal. The idea was to craft a dish that feels luxurious yet is simple enough for anyone to prepare, even after a long day. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this penne pasta dish will impress your family and friends while becoming a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the 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 and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.

2. Prepare the turkey: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5–6 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and lightly browned.

4. Make the Alfredo sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the vegetables. Allow the cream to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

5. Add cheese and seasoning: Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

6. Combine turkey and pasta: Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

7. Serve and garnish: Plate the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips for the Perfect Turkey & Mushroom Alfredo Penne

• Choose fresh mushrooms: Fresh, firm mushrooms add a deeper flavor and better texture to the dish. Cremini mushrooms work especially well for their earthy taste.

• Don’t overcook the turkey: Ground turkey can become dry if overcooked. Cook just until no longer pink for juicy, tender bites.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly.

• Adjust the sauce consistency: Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick. This also helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.

• Experiment with herbs: While parsley is classic, fresh thyme or basil can elevate the flavor profile for a slightly different twist.

Why This Dish is Perfect for Family Dinners

There’s a reason creamy pasta dishes are a family favorite—they bring people together. Turkey & Mushroom Alfredo Penne is ideal for a family dinner because it’s easy to make, filling, and universally appealing. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tender turkey, hearty mushrooms, and creamy sauce that clings to each penne piece.

Another benefit is its versatility. You can prepare this dish with whatever vegetables you have on hand—spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work wonderfully. This allows for flexibility depending on what’s in your fridge while still maintaining the comforting essence of a creamy pasta dinner.

Hosting Made Easy

If you’re hosting a small dinner party, this dish also shines as a main course. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to complete the meal. The creamy sauce makes it feel indulgent, but the recipe remains simple enough to cook while entertaining, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen all evening.

To elevate presentation, garnish each plate with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs. A drizzle of olive oil or a few roasted cherry tomatoes adds visual appeal and makes the dish even more inviting.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Ground turkey: Lean and packed with protein, turkey is a lighter alternative to beef while still providing a hearty, satisfying base.

• Mushrooms: Rich in umami, mushrooms enhance the flavor of the creamy sauce and add an earthy dimension that pairs perfectly with turkey.

• Alfredo sauce: The combination of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese is classic comfort food. The sauce clings to the pasta, creating a creamy, luscious texture that makes every bite memorable.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement this dish, consider serving it with:

• Garlic bread or focaccia: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

• A crisp salad: A fresh Caesar or simple mixed greens salad adds brightness to the creamy pasta.

• Light white wine alternative: Sparkling water with a splash of lemon can cleanse the palate between bites.

Storing and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving at high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

Health Benefits

While indulgent, this dish contains nutrient-rich ingredients:

• Turkey is high in protein and low in fat.

• Mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and vitamins.

• Using fresh herbs adds flavor without extra sodium or calories.

By using lean protein and incorporating vegetables, this creamy pasta can fit into a balanced diet while still feeling like a treat.

Tips for Perfect Texture

• Always cook pasta al dente so it retains a slight bite.

• Stir frequently when making the sauce to prevent burning or clumping.

• Gradually add Parmesan to the cream and melt slowly to achieve a silky, lump-free sauce.

Making It Your Own

This recipe is versatile and forgiving, making it perfect for experimentation. Try:

• Adding a handful of spinach for extra greens.

• Swapping mushrooms for roasted bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.

• Incorporating garlic powder or onion powder for a deeper taste.

Even small tweaks can personalize the dish while keeping the core creamy, comforting flavors intact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of regular penne?

Yes! Whole wheat penne is a wholesome, nutritious alternative that adds a subtle nutty flavor to your dish. It’s a great way to increase fiber and protein while keeping the comfort of a creamy pasta dinner. Whole wheat pasta has a firmer texture than traditional white pasta, so it’s important to pay attention to cooking times. Start by following the package instructions, but taste the pasta a minute or two before the recommended cooking time ends. The goal is to reach the perfect al dente texture—tender but with a slight bite in the center. Cooking too long can make the pasta mushy, which may affect how the sauce clings to it. Additionally, when tossing whole wheat pasta with the creamy Alfredo sauce, you may notice that it absorbs a little more sauce than regular pasta. To keep the dish perfectly saucy, reserve some pasta water while cooking and stir it in gradually as needed. This will help maintain a smooth, creamy consistency and ensure every bite is delicious.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While Turkey & Mushroom Alfredo Penne is best enjoyed fresh, there are ways to prepare parts of it ahead of time. The main concern with storing the fully prepared dish is that the creamy Alfredo sauce can thicken or separate when refrigerated, altering the texture. To work around this, cook the turkey and mushrooms in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to serve, gently reheat the turkey and mushrooms over medium-low heat. Then, add the cream and Parmesan cheese to recreate the sauce, stirring until smooth and velvety. This method allows you to save time without sacrificing the creamy richness that makes this dish so comforting. If you need to prep even further, you can cook the pasta separately and store it in the fridge. When reheating, toss the pasta with a little warm cream or milk to bring back the perfect saucy texture.

Can I substitute turkey with chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs make an excellent substitute for ground turkey. Chicken has a slightly different flavor profile but pairs just as well with the earthy mushrooms and creamy Alfredo sauce. Dice or shred the chicken before cooking to ensure it mixes evenly with the pasta. Cook the chicken until fully done and lightly browned for added flavor. Once incorporated into the sauce, the chicken will soak up the creamy richness, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that rivals the turkey version.

Can I make a lighter version of this Alfredo sauce?

Yes, you can make this dish lighter without losing its creamy appeal. One option is to use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or combine milk with a small amount of cream for reduced richness. You can also slightly reduce the butter or replace it with olive oil to lower saturated fat. Keep in mind that a lighter sauce will be thinner than traditional Alfredo, so toss it gently with the pasta to ensure it coats evenly. For extra flavor without extra calories, consider adding extra garlic, freshly grated Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the depth of taste while keeping it lighter.

Turkey & Mushroom Alfredo Penne Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines tender turkey, earthy mushrooms, and rich Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, family gatherings, or any time you crave a hearty, flavorful meal that’s simple to prepare.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz penne pasta

• 1 lb ground turkey

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cups heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.

• Add remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet. Sauté onions for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook 5–6 minutes until mushrooms are tender.

• Reduce heat to medium. Pour in heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

• Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.

• Return turkey to the skillet and stir to combine. Add cooked penne pasta, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired sauce consistency.

• Plate the pasta and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust seasoning to taste.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore sauce consistency.

• Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for a smoother sauce.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Michelle Davis