Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom & Turkey Beef Spaghetti
This Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom & Turkey Beef Spaghetti is a wholesome twist on classic pasta with a light yet rich creamy sauce, lean ground meats, earthy mushrooms, garlic, and herbs. It combines the heartiness of a meaty spaghetti with the elegance of Mediterranean flavors—think olive oil, fresh parsley, hints of lemon, and creamy Greek yogurt or light cream to keep it luscious without being heavy.
It’s a perfect weeknight meal: comforting, protein-packed, and easy to make in under an hour.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
250g (9 oz) spaghetti (whole wheat or regular)
Salt, for pasta water
For the Creamy Turkey-Beef Mushroom Sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
250g (9 oz) lean ground turkey
150g (5 oz) lean ground beef (or use just turkey)
1 small onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
200g (7 oz) mushrooms (cremini, button, or mixed), sliced
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
¾ cup Greek yogurt or light cream (or half & half)
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)
Garnish (Optional):
Chopped parsley or basil
Chili flakes
Extra Parmesan
Drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Meat & Mushrooms
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in ground turkey and beef. Break up meat with a spoon and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes.
Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and begin to brown, 5 more minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Season with oregano, thyme, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Lower the heat. Stir in Greek yogurt or light cream and mix gently until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add lemon juice and Parmesan (if using). Stir and adjust seasoning.
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Cook together for 1–2 minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and extra cheese or chili flakes, if desired.
Tips for Success
Don’t overheat the yogurt if using it instead of cream—it can curdle. Add it off heat or on low flame.
Add greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or chopped kale with the mushrooms.
Use pasta water: It helps bind the sauce to the noodles and adds starchy richness.
Lean meats: Turkey keeps it light, but beef adds richness—use your preferred ratio.
Variations
Fully dairy-free: Use unsweetened oat cream or coconut cream and skip Parmesan.
All turkey version: Skip beef for an even leaner profile.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra Mediterranean depth.
Make it spicy: Add harissa, crushed red pepper, or chili paste to the sauce.
Low-carb: Serve sauce over spiralized zucchini or roasted eggplant instead of pasta.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or broth.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: The sauce freezes well (without pasta). Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Q: What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
A: Light cream, sour cream, or even ricotta mixed with a little milk will work.
Q: Can I use other pasta types?
A: Absolutely. Try penne, linguine, whole wheat, or gluten-free pasta.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 460
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 430mg
Calcium: 120mg
(Varies with ingredient choices and cheese quantities.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Creamy Mushroom & Turkey Beef Spaghetti is a beautiful balance of health, comfort, and rich flavor. With lean proteins, whole grains, Mediterranean herbs, and a creamy yet light sauce, it’s perfect for families, date nights, or meal prep. Best of all, it’s a versatile base that welcomes your favorite veggies or custom twists.
Every bite is earthy, tangy, and deeply satisfying—proof that comfort food can be nourishing, too.