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- 12 ounces whole wheat ziti pasta - 1 pound ground turkey - 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 24 ounces marinara sauce (preferably low-sugar) - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Baked Ziti with Ground Turkey and Spinach

Discover a healthy twist on a beloved classic with this Zesty Baked Ziti featuring turkey and spinach. This comforting dish combines whole wheat pasta, lean ground turkey, and fresh spinach for a nutritious and flavorful meal. Layered with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, it’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Enjoy its gooey, cheesy goodness without compromising on health, making mealtime both satisfying and nourishing!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound whole wheat ziti pasta

1 pound 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 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: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.

        Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and combine with marinara sauce in the skillet.

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

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

              Layer the Dish: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture evenly. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the top, followed by the remaining pasta. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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