Craving a hearty, delicious meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This Ground Turkey Baked Ziti recipe is a fantastic weeknight dinner solution, perfect for busy families or anyone who appreciates a truly comforting, homemade meal without the fuss. Forget complicated recipes and long cooking times – this easy recipe delivers big on flavor and texture, all while being surprisingly healthy. Get ready to experience baked ziti like you've never had it before!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 12 ounces ziti pasta, cooked al dente
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Turkey Sauce
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey until cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Simmering the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and delicious sauce.
Step 3: Creating the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. This creamy mixture adds a delightful layer of texture and flavor to the ziti.
Step 4: Assembling the Ziti
In a large baking dish (9x13 inch), spread half of the turkey sauce. Top with half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers with the remaining sauce, ziti, and ricotta. Finish by sprinkling generously with mozzarella cheese.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the ziti is heated through. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the ziti to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Feel free to substitute ground chicken or Italian sausage for the ground turkey.
- Add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- If you prefer a creamier ziti, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the ricotta mixture.
- To make this a complete meal, serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This delicious and easy ground turkey baked ziti recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone, making it a true family favorite. Enjoy!