Name: Turkish Pasta (Viral Manti‑Style Weeknight Dinner)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 12 ounces spaghetti; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more for salting water; 2 cups plain whole milk Greek yogurt; 2 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes; 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika; Chopped fresh dill, for garnish

Why You’ll Love Turkish Pasta (Viral Manti‑Style Weeknight Dinner) Recipe

This dish brings together bold Mediterranean flavors with everyday ingredients you likely already have: creamy garlic yogurt, savory spiced beef, and warm butter with chili for contrast. It’s satisfying, crowd‑pleasing, and perfect for weeknights when you want something cozy but exciting.

Ingredients

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

plain whole‑milk Greek yogurt
garlic
kosher salt
unsalted butter
tomato paste
red pepper flakes
80% lean ground beef
white or yellow onion
freshly ground black pepper
dried pasta (shells, rigatoni, or cavatappi)
fresh parsley

Directions

Make the garlic‑yogurt sauce: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with finely grated garlic and half of the salt until well combined. Set aside.
Prepare the spiced butter: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tomato paste and red pepper flakes, stirring until the paste begins to stick and the butter turns reddish, about 2 minutes. Transfer this butter mixture to a small bowl and wipe out the pan.
Cook the beef: Return the cleaned pan to medium‑high heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until the beef is browned and slightly crispy, about 10 minutes.
Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Assemble: Divide the cooked pasta onto plates or into bowls. Spoon the garlic‑yogurt sauce over top, add the ground beef mixture, and drizzle with the tomato‑butter mixture. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Make it more authentic: Use Turkish red pepper paste (biber salça) instead of tomato paste.
Add spices: Finish with sumac or dried mint for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Change the meat: Swap ground beef for lamb, turkey, or plant‑based crumbles.
Different pasta: Try farfalle, orecchiette, or other small shapes that catch the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover components (pasta, beef, sauces) separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When ready to eat, reheat pasta and beef gently on the stove or in the microwave, then reassemble with fresh yogurt and spiced butter to preserve the texture and flavors.

FAQs

What pasta shape works best for Turkish pasta?

Short shapes like shells, mezze rigatoni, or cavatappi work well because they hold the sauces and beef bits.

Can I make this gluten‑free?

Yes — substitute your favorite gluten‑free pasta and cook according to package instructions.

Is there a dairy‑free version?

Use a dairy‑free yogurt and swap the butter for olive oil to make it dairy‑free.

How spicy is the dish?

Spice levels are adjustable. Red pepper flakes add heat to the butter drizzle, but you can reduce or omit them.

Can I prepare any parts ahead of time?

You can make the beef and sauces ahead and store them separately, then cook pasta fresh when ready to serve.

What can I serve with Turkish pasta?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm flatbread pair nicely.

Can I use plain yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Thicker Greek yogurt is best for creaminess, but you can strain plain yogurt to thicken it before using.

How should leftovers be reheated?

Reheat pasta and beef on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying; add fresh yogurt and butter drizzle after warming.

Is this similar to Turkish manti?

Yes. This recipe captures the flavors of traditional Turkish manti in a simpler pasta format.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes — sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or tomatoes make great additions.

Conclusion

This Turkish pasta blends familiar ingredients with bold flavors inspired by traditional manti, making it a fun and delicious dish for dinner any night of the week. With creamy garlic yogurt, savory spiced beef, and a rich butter drizzle, it’s both comforting and exciting — and turns everyday pantry staples into something special.