Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey is a lighter, healthier take on the classic Italian-American comfort dish.
Traditional baked ziti is often made with ground beef, but by swapping it with ground turkey, you reduce the fat and calorie content while still maintaining a delicious, hearty flavor.
This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a familiar favorite without compromising on taste or nutrition. With layers of tender pasta, savory marinara sauce, lean ground turkey, and a generous amount of melted cheese, this baked ziti is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or looking for a quick dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this healthier twist on a beloved classic.
Ingredients Needed for Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey
To make Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a delicious, comforting dish. Here’s everything you need to gather before you start cooking:
Pasta
- Ziti Pasta: The traditional choice for baked ziti, ziti pasta is the perfect vessel for holding all the layers of cheese, meat, and sauce. It holds its shape well and soaks up just the right amount of marinara sauce.
Ground Turkey
- Lean Ground Turkey: The star ingredient, lean ground turkey provides a lighter alternative to beef without sacrificing flavor. It’s high in protein and low in fat, making it an ideal choice for a healthier meal.
Cheese
- Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess to the dish and helps bind the pasta together, creating the perfect texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella is essential for that gooey, melty top layer that everyone loves. It adds a nice stretch and golden color when baked.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan enhances the dish with its sharp, nutty flavor. It’s used in the sauce and sprinkled on top for an extra burst of richness.
Marinara Sauce
- Store-bought or Homemade Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is key to the flavor of this dish. Whether you choose a jarred version or make it from scratch, this sauce provides a rich, tangy base for the ziti.
Aromatics and Herbs
- Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the turkey a savory, aromatic depth of flavor.
- Onion: A small onion, finely chopped, adds a mild sweetness that balances the savory ground turkey.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme creates a familiar Italian flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
Other Essentials
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the garlic and onions, olive oil adds richness and a slight fruity flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: These staples help to bring out the full flavor of all the ingredients.
Once you have all of your ingredients prepped and ready, you’re just a few simple steps away from enjoying a healthier version of this comforting, cheesy classic.
How to Make Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey
Making Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey is a simple, step-by-step process that results in a delicious, comforting meal. Here’s how to put everything together:
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Be careful not to overcook it, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and a generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Cook until the turkey is fully browned, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Combine the Marinara Sauce and Ground Turkey
Once the turkey is cooked through, pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs if desired.
4. Layer the Ziti and Turkey Mixture
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture on the bottom. Then, add half of the cooked ziti and top it with half of the ground turkey sauce mixture. Follow with a generous layer of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, turkey sauce, and mozzarella. Finally, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the ziti rest for a few minutes before serving so the layers can set.
Tips for the Best Baked Ziti
To make sure your Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey is the best it can be, here are a few helpful tips:
Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta
If you’re looking to make your baked ziti even healthier, consider using whole wheat ziti. It provides extra fiber and nutrients without sacrificing the classic taste. For a gluten-free version, you can easily substitute gluten-free ziti or another type of gluten-free pasta.
Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition
If you’d like to sneak in some extra vegetables, try adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the ground turkey mixture. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic, or stir them into the sauce as it simmers. These additions will not only boost the nutritional content but also enhance the flavor.
Use Fresh Herbs for a Burst of Flavor
While dried Italian seasoning is great, using fresh herbs like basil and oregano can elevate the flavor of the dish. Add fresh chopped herbs to the sauce for an aromatic and vibrant taste that truly shines.
Don’t Overbake the Ziti
One common mistake when making baked ziti is overbaking. This can lead to dry, tough pasta. Be sure to follow the baking times carefully and let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set and prevent it from running when served.
Make It Ahead and Freeze
Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking, or freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
These tips will help ensure your Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey turns out perfectly every time!
Baking the Ziti
Baking is the final step to getting that golden, cheesy perfection. Follow these steps for the best results:
Bake to Golden, Bubbly Perfection
Once your ziti is layered with sauce, cheese, and ground turkey, it’s time to bake. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and bubbly. This step ensures that the cheese melts beautifully, and the pasta absorbs the sauce while staying tender.
Let It Rest Before Serving
After removing the ziti from the oven, let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. This will help the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without the sauce running everywhere. Resting also allows the flavors to settle and intensify, giving you the best-tasting ziti possible!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative to ground turkey. It’s equally lean and will provide a similar flavor and texture to the dish. Just be sure to season it well to bring out the best taste.
2. Can I make Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This dish is great for meal prepping. You can assemble the ziti up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. If you’re making it ahead for later, you can also freeze the assembled ziti for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While ziti is traditional for this dish, you can easily substitute any other pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just make sure the pasta you choose will hold up well in the baking process.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or stir in some chopped jalapeños or hot sausage to the turkey mixture. Adjust the spice level to your liking!
5. How do I store leftovers?
Leftover Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven (covered with foil) until heated through. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey is the perfect dish for those who want a lighter, healthier twist on a classic favorite. It’s packed with flavor, layers of gooey cheese, and hearty ground turkey, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping for the week, or craving a comforting homemade meal, this recipe has you covered. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and the ability to make ahead, you’ll find yourself reaching for this dish time and time again. So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy a delicious, healthier baked ziti tonight!
Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey
Equipment
- 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
- 1 large skillet (for cooking turkey and sauce)
- 1 large baking dish (9×13-inch)
- 1 medium saucepan (optional, for simmering sauce if making from scratch)
- 1 large spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for accuracy in ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 small onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Ground Turkey
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Combine the Sauce and Turkey
- Pour in the marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Assemble the Ziti
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the turkey sauce mixture on the bottom. Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the turkey sauce. Spread ¾ cup of ricotta cheese over the sauce, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining pasta, turkey sauce, and mozzarella. Finish with a layer of Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground turkey for plant-based ground meat or lentils to make it vegetarian.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just bake it from frozen, adding extra time if needed.
- Extra Veggies: For more nutritional value, consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the turkey mixture. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or gouda for a unique flavor.
