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High Protein

Turkish Pasta with Sweet Pepper Yogurt Sauce and Meatballs

Gourmet Chef•
Turkish Pasta with Sweet Pepper Yogurt Sauce and Meatballs

This Turkish pasta recipe features a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce made with sweet paprika and garlic, perfectly paired with savory meatballs and spiral pasta. The dish is full of rich flavors and can easily be prepared for a comforting, hearty meal.

Ingredients:

For the Sweet Pepper Yogurt Sauce:

  • 2 cups Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided, plus extra to taste)

For the Meatballs:

  • 5 tablespoons butter
  • 2 teaspoons sweet paprika (divided)
  • 1 pound spiral pasta
  • 1 1/4 pounds ground beef (or lamb)
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes (quartered)
  • 1 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Yogurt Sauce:
    • In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir well and set aside.
  2. Make the Butter Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika and a pinch of salt. Keep the sauce warm.
  3. Cook the Pasta:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  4. Cook the Meatballs:
    • While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat begins to brown.
    • Add the chopped onion, remaining paprika, curry powder, onion powder, remaining salt, and black pepper. Stir and cook until the meat and onion are browned and crispy.
  5. Assemble the Dish:
    • Divide the cooked pasta among serving plates. Top each with a generous spoonful of the yogurt sauce.
    • Add the meatball mixture on top, followed by a drizzle of the butter sauce.
    • Garnish with halved grape tomatoes and fresh parsley.

Why You’ll Love This Turkish Pasta:

  • Rich and Flavorful: The creamy yogurt sauce, the warmth of sweet paprika, and the savory meatballs come together for a satisfying and delicious meal.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
  • Versatile: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with lamb or even chicken for different variations.