Turkey-Veggie Baked Ziti, Hearty Thanksgiving Pasta
What kind of recipe is it?
Turkey-Veggie Baked Ziti is a wholesome and delicious dish that combines the comforting flavors of pasta with lean turkey and a medley of vegetables.
This hearty entrée features baked ziti smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
It’s perfect for families looking for a crowd-pleasing meal that balances taste and nutrition. Additionally, it’s great for meal prep, providing leftovers that taste even better the next day, appealing to busy individuals and health-conscious eaters alike.
This thorough ingredient list will guarantee you have everything you need to create a delicious and nutritious Turkey-Veggie Baked Ziti.
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 190 °C (375 °F) and adjust the rack to the middle position. Prepare a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add 340 g (12 ounces) of ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 30 ml (2 tablespoons) of olive oil. Once shimmering (around 190 °C or 375 °F), add 1 diced medium onion, 1 diced medium bell pepper, 1 diced medium zucchini, and 1 grated medium carrot.
Sauté for 5–7 minutes until vegetables become tender and aromatic.
4. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add 450 g (1 pound) of ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until the turkey is browned and reaches an internal temperature of 74 °C (165 °F), about 7–10 minutes.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
6. Reduce heat to medium, and add 960 ml (4 cups) of marinara sauce, 15 g (1 tablespoon) of Italian seasoning, 5 g (1 teaspoon) of salt, 2.5 g (1/2 teaspoon) of black pepper, and 0.5 g (1/4 teaspoon) of red pepper flakes (if using) to the turkey mixture.
Stir to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.
7. In a separate bowl, combine 240 g (1 cup) of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, and 15 g (1/4 cup) of chopped fresh basil (if using).
Mix until smooth.
8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the turkey and vegetable mixture.
Gently fold in the ricotta mixture until well combined.
9. Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the shredded mozzarella cheese (about 240 g or 2 cups) on top, then add the remaining pasta mixture.
Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and 50 g (1/2 cup) of grated Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, ensuring the shiny side is facing inward to reflect heat.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to set.
13. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy your Turkey-Veggie Baked Ziti!
Variations
Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground turkey with 450 g (1 pound) of lentils, chickpeas, or additional sautéed vegetables for a hearty plant-based option.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free ziti pasta, ensuring all other ingredients, including the marinara sauce and cheese, are certified gluten-free.
Dairy-Free Ziti: Substitute ricotta cheese with blended silken tofu mixed with nutritional yeast and lemon juice, and use dairy-free mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy texture.
Spicy Turkey Ziti: Add 1 chopped jalapeño or increase red pepper flakes to taste for an extra kick, or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground turkey for added flavor.
Tips on plating and presentation
After exploring variations of baked ziti, presenting your dish beautifully can elevate the dining experience.
I love using a large, shallow serving dish to showcase the layers. Adding fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top adds color.
Serve with a sprinkle of grated cheese for that finishing touch. Pair it with a rustic bread on the side for a complete look.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
A hearty baked ziti makes a fantastic centerpiece for any meal, but pairing it with complementary dishes can truly enhance your dining experience.
I love serving it alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Garlic bread and roasted veggies also make great accompaniments, creating a balanced meal.
For a festive touch, consider adding cranberry sauce for a pop of flavor.
What drinks can I pair it with?
Finding the perfect drink to accompany turkey-veggie baked ziti can elevate your meal to new heights.
I love pairing it with a light red wine, like Pinot Noir, which complements the hearty flavors without overpowering them.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider adds a revitalizing touch.
Either choice enhances the meal while keeping it festive and enjoyable!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey for This Recipe?
I love using leftover Thanksgiving turkey in recipes. It adds great flavor and makes meals deliciously convenient. Just shred the turkey, mix it in, and you’ll have a quick, satisfying dish ready to enjoy!
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian-Friendly?
I swap turkey for mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. I use a plant-based cheese and keep the pasta sauce hearty with lentils or beans. It’s delicious, and you won’t miss the meat at all!
Is This Recipe Freezer-Friendly?
Yes, this recipe’s freezer-friendly! I usually portion it into individual servings and freeze them. When I’m ready, I just thaw and reheat. It’s perfect for quick meals on busy nights. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Substitute a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely, you can substitute different types of pasta! I’ve used penne, rotini, and even gluten-free options. Just keep an eye on the cooking time to guarantee it turns out delicious and perfectly cooked.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare and Cook?
It typically takes me about 30 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 30 to cook. So, you’re looking at around an hour total. It’s a manageable time for a delicious meal!
