Cozy Ground Turkey Pasta Bake Recipe for Family Nights

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by Emma Taylor

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When the aroma of a bubbling Ground Turkey Pasta Bake wafts through your kitchen, you know good times are ahead. This dish combines cheesy goodness with hearty pasta, making it a comforting favorite for cozy family nights or casual gatherings with friends. cheese tortellini pasta salad.

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Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re looking for something easy yet flavorful to whip up. Enter Ground Turkey Pasta Bake—your warm hug in a casserole dish! This delightful combination is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck that needs to impress. creamy mushroom spinach pasta Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Ground Turkey Pasta Bake is simple to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy weekdays
  • The flavor profile is rich and savory, with layers of melted cheese and tender pasta
  • Visually appealing with its golden crust, it will wow your dinner guests
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your pantry staples or dietary preferences

The first time I made this dish, my family couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was—they even asked for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.

Ground Turkey Pasta Bake Recipe

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Turkey: Lean and flavorful, this is the star protein that gives the bake its heartiness. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
  • Pasta: Use any shape you have on hand; penne or rotini works best for holding onto the sauce.
  • Marinara Sauce: A jar of your favorite store-bought sauce adds richness and saves time in preparation.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings gooey goodness and a tangy bite to the bake.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano and basil enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
  • Onion and Garlic: Sautéed together, they create an aromatic base that elevates every bite of this bake.
  • Olive Oil: A splash helps sauté the veggies while adding a touch of healthy fat.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.

Brown the Turkey: Add ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned all over; about 7-10 minutes should do it.

Add Marinara Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully together.

Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, boil water in another pot to cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.

Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with turkey mixture. chipotle tahini bowl Ensure every noodle is coated in that saucy goodness!

Bake It Up!: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar generously on top and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now that you’ve got the steps down pat, sit back and let the delightful aroma fill your home while you await your culinary masterpiece! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this savory Ground Turkey Pasta Bake that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your household.

You Must Know

  • Ground Turkey Pasta Bake is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a casserole dish
  • The combination of savory turkey, rich pasta, and gooey cheese creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth
  • Plus, it’s easy to whip together on busy nights!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground turkey in a skillet. Then, cook your pasta while preparing the sauce to save time and ensure everything is hot and fresh when served.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground turkey for chicken or beef. Toss in veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color—no one will complain about a veggie boost! grilled salsa verde chicken.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor
  • Cook pasta al dente so it won’t become mushy after baking
  • Always taste the sauce before mixing for perfect seasoning adjustments

Cooking this Ground Turkey Pasta Bake brings back memories of cozy family dinners where laughter filled the air, and second servings were mandatory.

FAQ

Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or even beef if preferred.

How do I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Replace ground turkey with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I freeze the Ground Turkey Pasta Bake?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking for up to three months; just thaw and bake when ready.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Ground Turkey Pasta Bake Recipe

Ground Turkey Pasta Bake


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  • Author: Emma Taylor
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Ground Turkey Pasta Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that combines lean ground turkey, tender pasta, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to impress with its rich flavors and minimal cleanup. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this satisfying meal that’s as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 3 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent.
  3. Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned (7-10 minutes).
  4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain.
  6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with the turkey mixture until well-coated.
  7. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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