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Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 77 reviews

This Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe is a delicious fusion of creamy garlic yogurt, spiced ground beef, and tender pasta, topped with flavorful paprika butter, fresh cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and parsley. Inspired by Turkish flavors, this dish offers a comforting and vibrant meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Garlic Yogurt Sauce

  • 2 cups Greek yogurt
  • 4 garlic cloves (grated)
  • Juice from ½ lemon
  • Salt (to taste)

Spiced Beef

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 yellow onion (diced)
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp cumin
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Paprika Butter

  • ¼ cup butter
  • 1 tsp sweet paprika

Toppings and Pasta

  • Cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Feta cheese (crumbled)
  • 12 oz cooked pasta (like fusilli or penne)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Garlic Yogurt: In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  2. Cook the Spiced Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in sweet paprika, garlic powder, and cumin, cooking for another 2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavors. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, and brown thoroughly, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in tomato paste and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Make the Paprika Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add sweet paprika and stir until the butter gently bubbles and the paprika is fragrant. Remove from heat to prevent burning.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Place the cooked pasta in a serving dish or individual plates. Spoon the garlic yogurt sauce over the pasta, then top with the spiced beef mixture. Drizzle the warm paprika butter all over the dish to add richness and flavor.
  5. Add the Toppings: Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for freshness and color.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the pasta warm. Dig in to enjoy the cozy, comforting blend of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb or turkey for different flavors.
  • Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid mushiness, as it will be mixed with warm sauces.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of chili flakes to the beef while cooking.
  • Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a richer and creamier sauce.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead, but add the paprika butter and toppings just before serving for best results.

Keywords: Turkish pasta, garlic yogurt sauce, spiced beef pasta, paprika butter, feta pasta, easy Turkish recipe, comfort food, savory pasta dish