Are you ready to indulge in a comforting, cheesy dish that will have your family begging for seconds? Look no further than our Baked Cheesy Turkey Penne! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender penne pasta, savory ground turkey, and a luscious blend of cheeses, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. In just 45 minutes, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave everyone at the table satisfied. Dive into this recipe and discover how to elevate your dinner game with a cheesy delight that’s sure to impress!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked.
- Season the turkey with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper while cooking. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add marinara sauce to the cooked turkey, stirring to combine. Simmer the sauce and meat mixture for 3-4 minutes.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half the cooked pasta, then spread half the meat sauce over the pasta.
- Dollop ricotta cheese evenly across the sauce layer. Sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining pasta, meat sauce, and cheeses, ensuring an even distribution.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly with slight golden edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the dish to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the penne pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This ensures that your pasta retains its perfect texture.
- Season Generously: Don't skimp on the seasoning! The flavor of the turkey is enhanced with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, so be sure to taste and adjust as needed while cooking.
- Layering is Key: When layering the pasta, meat sauce, and cheeses, make sure to distribute everything evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor and cheesy goodness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh ricotta and high-quality marinara sauce. You can even make your own marinara for a personal touch!
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's aroma and flavor, making it even more appealing.
- Customize Your Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding a bit of provolone or fontina can give your dish a unique twist.
- Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making dinner even easier on busy nights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 525kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
