This Turkish-style manti pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish inspired by classic manti flavors, made simpler with small pasta. Tender pasta is tossed with spiced ground meat, then topped generously with a garlicky yogurt sauce and a warm paprika butter drizzle for a rich, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together creamy, savory, and mildly spiced flavors in one bowl. It is quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve to guests. The contrast between the warm pasta and meat, cool yogurt sauce, and aromatic butter topping creates a balanced and deeply comforting dish that feels both hearty and fresh.

Ingredients

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

For the pasta and meat:
12 oz (340 g) small pasta such as shells, ditalini, or mini farfalle
½ lb (225 g) ground beef or ground lamb
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the yogurt sauce:
1½ cups plain Greek yogurt
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste

For the butter sauce and topping:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon dried mint or 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned.

Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and well combined. Remove from heat.

In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the paprika and chili flakes if using. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds, just until the spices bloom. Remove from heat immediately.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the meat and toss gently to combine. Transfer to a serving dish or individual plates. Spoon the yogurt sauce over the pasta, then drizzle with the warm paprika butter. Finish with dried mint or fresh parsley on top.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the dish. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas and sauté them with the same spices. If you enjoy extra tang, a small spoon of tomato paste can be added to the meat while cooking.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the yogurt sauce separate if possible. Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm, then add the yogurt sauce and butter topping just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, but make sure it is thick. If it is thin, strain it briefly to remove excess liquid.

What pasta works best for this recipe?

Small pasta shapes work best because they hold the sauce well and resemble the size of traditional manti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat and yogurt sauce in advance, then cook the pasta and assemble just before serving.

Is this recipe spicy?

It is mildly spiced. You can adjust the chili flakes or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?

Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, especially in the yogurt sauce.

How do I prevent the yogurt from separating?

Let the yogurt come to room temperature before serving and avoid heating it directly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended because the yogurt sauce may change texture when thawed.

What can I serve with this pasta?

A simple cucumber salad or fresh vegetables pair well with the richness of the dish.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Yes, peas or finely chopped spinach can be stirred into the pasta for added color and nutrition.

What gives this dish its Turkish-style flavor?

The combination of garlic yogurt, paprika butter, and dried mint is characteristic of classic manti-inspired dishes.

Conclusion

Turkish-style manti pasta with yogurt sauce is an easy yet impressive meal that captures traditional flavors in a modern, accessible way. With simple ingredients and bold taste, it is a recipe you can rely on whenever you crave something comforting, creamy, and full of character.

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