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- 12 oz whole wheat ziti pasta - 1 lb lean ground turkey - 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped - 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or low-sugar store-bought) - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tsp dried oregano - 1 tsp dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil for cooking - Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey and Spinach

Discover a nutritious twist on a classic favorite with this Zesty Baked Ziti featuring lean ground turkey and fresh spinach. This comforting dish uses whole wheat pasta for added fiber and flavor, making it a healthier option for family dinners. With layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, it delivers satisfying taste without sacrificing nutrition. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings, this homemade recipe is sure to impress and delight everyone around your table!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound whole wheat ziti pasta

1 pound lean ground turkey

3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

28 ounces marinara sauce (preferably homemade or low-sugar)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)

1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the whole wheat ziti and cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the ground turkey to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked through. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).

        Add Spinach: Gently stir in the chopped spinach and cook just until it wilts, approximately 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, remove the skillet from heat and pour in the marinara sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients.

          Mix Ricotta Filling: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, large egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the turkey-spinach-marinara mixture and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until well incorporated.

              Layer the Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. Using a spoon, dollop the ricotta mixture over this layer, ensuring an even distribution. Then, layer on the remaining pasta mixture. To finish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, flavorful meal!

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6