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Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey

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Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey is a lighter take on a classic comfort food. This hearty, flavorful dish features ziti pasta, lean ground turkey, marinara sauce, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or freezing for later. Easy to make, it’s a crowd-pleaser that packs flavor without the extra fat. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this healthy, cheesy baked ziti is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ziti pasta

  • 1 lb ground turkey

  • 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)

  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

  • Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes.

  • Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors combine.

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and the meat sauce. Mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.

  • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • To make it spicier, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

  • Use a blend of cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique twist.

  • Gluten-free pasta can be substituted to make this dish suitable for gluten sensitivities.

  • Add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to make the dish more hearty and nutritious.

  • You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months, reheating when ready to serv

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/baked-ziti-with-ground-turkey/