Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz (1 box) Penne or Rotini pasta ($1.00)
- 1 lb Ground Turkey or Italian Sausage ($4.00)
- 1 jar (24 oz) Marinara Sauce ($1.50)
- 1 bag (12 oz) Frozen Broccoli or Spinach ($1.00)
- 1 small Onion, diced ($0.25)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced ($0.10)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil ($0.10)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil the Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it is “al dente” (usually 1-2 minutes less than the full cook time). This is crucial because the pasta will soften slightly when you reheat it later in the week. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Protein – While the pasta boils, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the ground turkey or sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Simmer the Sauce and Veggies – Pour the jar of marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat. Add the frozen broccoli or spinach directly into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes. The frozen vegetables will defrost and cook perfectly in the warm sauce, and the flavors will meld together.
- Step 4: Combine and Portion – Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce and meat. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Taste and add salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed. Divide the mixture evenly into four microwave-safe meal prep containers. Let them cool slightly before snapping on the lids and placing them in the refrigerator.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes