Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe is a bold, creamy, and spicy dish inspired by Turkish flavors and street food flair. Featuring garlicky yogurt, spicy butter sauce, and tender pasta, this dish delivers an irresistible mix of tangy, savory, and smoky notes in every bite—easy, fast, and packed with flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pasta such as spaghetti, penne, or orzoGreek yogurt or strained plain yogurtgarlic cloves mincedbuttersweet or smoked paprikachili flakes or Aleppo pepperolive oilsaltblack pepperoptional: lemon zest or juicefresh parsley or dill for garnish

directions

Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt with minced garlic and a pinch of salt until smooth; set aside.

In a small pan, melt butter over medium heat.

Stir in paprika and chili flakes; cook until butter is bubbly and fragrant, then remove from heat.

Toss the warm pasta with the garlic yogurt until evenly coated.

Drizzle the hot spiced butter over the yogurt-coated pasta.

Top with fresh herbs, a crack of black pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serve immediately while warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 2–3 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add sautéed ground beef or lamb for a protein boost.

Use mint or basil for a different herbal finish.

Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.

Mix in roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.

Use labneh or sour cream if Greek yogurt isn’t available.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.

Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe

FAQs

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild to moderate kick; adjust chili flakes to your heat preference.

Can I use regular yogurt?

Yes, just strain it first or use full-fat for creaminess.

What’s the best pasta type?

Short pasta like penne or orzo works great, but any shape can be used.

Can I serve it cold?

Yes, it also works as a cold pasta salad for warm days.

Is it vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is fully vegetarian and easy to customize.

What herbs go best?

Parsley, dill, or mint all complement the yogurt and butter beautifully.

Can I make it ahead?

You can prep the yogurt and butter separately, then combine when ready to serve.

What’s Aleppo pepper?

A mildly spicy, slightly fruity chili flake common in Turkish and Middle Eastern cooking.

Can I use ghee instead of butter?

Yes, ghee adds a nutty richness to the spiced topping.

Is lemon juice necessary?

It’s optional, but adds a nice tang to balance the richness.

Conclusion

The Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe is a creamy, tangy, and spicy sensation that takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something unforgettable. Perfect for quick lunches, meatless dinners, or a flavorful side, it’s no surprise this dish has won hearts across social media and kitchens alike.

Print
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Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe

Viral Turkish Pasta Recipe

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  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Turkish
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This viral Turkish pasta recipe features a rich tomato-garlic yogurt sauce, finished with a spiced butter drizzle, creating a creamy, tangy, and savory dish that’s irresistibly flavorful.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or macaroni preferred)
  • 1 cup plain yogurt (preferably Turkish or Greek)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (Aleppo pepper or chili flakes)
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix yogurt and garlic with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
  3. In a small pan, heat olive oil and tomato paste over medium heat. Stir for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen if needed.
  4. Stir the tomato paste sauce into the cooked pasta until well coated.
  5. In a separate pan, melt butter and add paprika and red pepper flakes. Let it sizzle for 1 minute until aromatic.
  6. To serve, spoon the garlicky yogurt over the pasta, then drizzle with the spiced butter mixture.
  7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use strained yogurt for a thicker, creamier texture.
  • Adjust chili flakes to your preferred spice level.
  • Traditionally served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
  • Pairs well with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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