Cheesy Turkey and Spinach Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate family comfort food with our Cheesy Turkey and Spinach Pasta Bake. This heartwarming dish combines creamy cheeses, lean ground turkey, and fresh spinach, making it both delicious and nutritious. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies for picky eaters. Enjoy this delightful recipe with leftovers for lunch the next day, and create lasting memories around the dinner table!

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Ingredients

8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta (penne or fusilli recommended)

1 lb ground turkey

4 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups marinara sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

In a large pot, bring salted water to a vigorous boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches al dente texture. Drain and set aside in a colander.

Prepare the Turkey Filling:

In a sizable skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Cook the Turkey:

Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Season generously with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you're seeking some heat). Cook while stirring frequently for approximately 5-7 minutes or until the turkey is browned and fully cooked through.

Incorporate Spinach:

Fold in the chopped spinach, cooking until it wilts down, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, remove the skillet from heat.

Mix in the Cheese:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey and spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Use a spatula to blend all the ingredients together until everything is evenly distributed.

Combine with Marinara Sauce:

Pour in 1 ½ cups of marinara sauce, gently mixing it in until the pasta is well coated and all components are incorporated.

Prepare for Baking:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or olive oil. Spoon the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake:

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly with a light golden color.

Garnish and Serve:

Once done, allow the pasta bake to sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor if desired. Serve hot and savor every bite!

Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 50 min | Servings: 6-8

Presentation Tips: For an inviting look, serve the pasta bake directly from the baking dish, and offer additional grated Parmesan and fresh basil at the table for guests to garnish their servings.