Description
A satisfying and cozy dish brimming with savory ground turkey, tender pasta, melty cheese, and rich tomato sauce—this pasta bake is ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep that everyone loves.
Ingredients
1 lb uncooked pasta (penne, rigatoni, or shells)
2 lbs ground turkey
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce (or about 8 cups homemade)
1 cup chicken broth or water (optional, to loosen sauce)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just under al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Turkey Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey, breaking it up, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once browned and cooked through, remove from pan and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until softened and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
Combine Sauce
Add browned turkey back to the skillet. Stir in marinara sauce (and broth or water if needed). Simmer for 5–7 minutes until flavors meld.
Assemble the Bake
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with turkey sauce. Stir in half the mozzarella and half the Parmesan. Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 13×9-inch baking dish (or two smaller dishes for shallower layers).
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, broil for 1–2 minutes for golden browned cheese.
Finish & Serve
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal / Serving
- Fat: 20 g / Serving
- Carbohydrates: 45 g / Serving
- Protein: 35 g / Serving