Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey

Name: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g spaghetti; 250g ground turkey; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil; Salt, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Effortless Eats Recipes

I absolutely love how simple yet flavorful this Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey is. The marriage of garlic and red pepper flakes creates a delightful aroma that fills my kitchen, while the addition of turkey adds a unique twist to a classic Italian dish. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short. I often find myself tweaking the recipe with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon to elevate the flavors even further. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a regular on your dinner table.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:13:27.791Z

Making Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey turned into an unexpected culinary adventure for me. My first attempt was a modest success, but I soon realized that cooking the garlic in the right amount of olive oil is crucial to avoid burning it. I learned to keep my heat low and added the garlic just before the pasta was fully cooked. The result was a beautiful, fragrant oil that perfectly coated the noodles.

Each time I prepare this dish, I play around with the ingredients. One day, I might add spinach or cherry tomatoes, and the next I’ll keep it classic. This flexibility is what I love the most; it allows me to be creative while sticking with the comforting roots of traditional Italian cooking.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The rich flavor from garlic and olive oil creates an irresistible aroma.
Lean turkey makes this dish a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
Quick to make, it’s ideal for busy weeknights!

The Role of Garlic and Olive Oil

Garlic and olive oil are the heart and soul of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. The garlic infuses the olive oil with its robust flavor as it cooks, creating a savory base for the dish. The key is to cook the garlic over low heat; this prevents it from burning and turning bitter. Aim for a golden color and a fragrant aroma—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes. When combined with the red pepper flakes, the oil takes on a delightful warmth that perfectly complements the dish.

Using high-quality extra-virgin olive oil is essential in this recipe. Not only does it enhance the flavor, but it also elevates the overall dish with its fruity notes. If you're looking to experiment, consider infusing your olive oil with herbs or citrus—it can provide an exciting twist. Just make sure to add these infusions early in the cooking process to allow their flavors to meld beautifully with the garlic.

Making the Perfect Sauce

Creating a sauce with just garlic and olive oil might seem simple, but the technique matters. After sautéing the garlic, add the drained spaghetti directly to the skillet without rinsing it. This technique allows the pasta to absorb the oil and garlic flavors directly. If the mixture appears too dry, gradually add reserved pasta water until it achieves a glossy and cohesive texture. This starchy water acts as a natural emulsifier, helping to bind the sauce to the pasta and create a silky finish.

For those who desire a bit more complexity, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. This bright acidity can cut through the richness of the oil, balancing the flavors beautifully. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also be folded in for an added layer of freshness, inviting new dimensions to this traditional dish without overwhelming the classic flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spaghetti in a skillet over medium-low heat. Sprinkle a little extra olive oil or reserved pasta water to prevent sticking and help revive the dish’s texture. Stir gently until heated through, usually about 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can for even reheating and to maintain the pasta's quality.

For meal prep, consider cooking the turkey mixture and storing it separately from the spaghetti. This way, you can easily combine them throughout the week for quick meals. If you want to freeze the dish, you can do so before adding any cheese; this keeps the texture from becoming grainy. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey

400g spaghetti
250g ground turkey
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!

Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water and then drain the pasta.

Cook the Turkey

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and sauté until cooked through, breaking it up into pieces as it cooks.

Sauté Garlic

Reduce the heat to low. Add the sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking gently until the garlic is golden but not burnt.

Combine Everything

Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture is too dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached. Season with salt.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Turkey!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

If you're looking for a leaner protein option, ground chicken or even lentils can work beautifully in place of turkey. Both alternatives will absorb the garlic and olive oil flavors nicely while keeping the dish healthy. For a gluten-free version, swap spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta type; just be sure to follow cooking instructions closely, as they may differ slightly from traditional pasta.

For those who might be watching their carb intake, spiralized vegetables like zucchini or carrots can serve as a fantastic substitute for spaghetti. Cook them lightly to retain some crunch and toss them in with the turkey and garlic mixture for a fresh, low-carb take on this classic.

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to contrast the richness of the pasta. Additionally, serving with crusty bread can make for a satisfying meal that helps soak up any remaining sauce. Don’t forget to offer extra grated Parmesan on the side; it invites guests to customize their servings according to their preferences.

For a festive touch, consider topping your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with toasted pine nuts for an added crunch, or sliced cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness and color. Both options can elevate the dish visually and texturally, making your meal feel even more special while keeping the preparation straightforward.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta?

Yes, while spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the turkey with sautéed mushrooms or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.

→ Can I make this in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prepare the turkey and garlic oil in advance and combine just before serving.