Baked Ziti

Meal Prep and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Grams per Serving: Approximately 200 grams

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with olive oil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tsp olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.
   • Add onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
5. Assemble the Ziti:
   • Spread 1/3 of the sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
   • Layer half the cooked pasta over the sauce.
   • Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta.
   • Add another 1/3 of the sauce and repeat the layers.
   • Finish with the remaining sauce and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish and Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Why This Recipe Works

This baked ziti strikes the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors while being easy to make for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for meal prep or freezing for later use.

Healthy Aspect

By using lean protein like ground turkey, whole-grain pasta, and a controlled amount of cheese, this baked ziti is a healthier alternative to traditional recipes. It offers a balanced macronutrient profile while being high in protein and low in unhealthy fats.