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Baked Ziti Bolognese

Baked Ziti Bolognese: A Cozy, Healthy Comfort Dish

Enjoy a lighter take on comfort food with this Baked Ziti Bolognese, featuring lean ground turkey and a bounty of veggies.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb 99% lean ground turkey Substitute with ground beef or chicken for richer flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Provides aromatic depth and flavor.
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced Enhances the base flavor of the sauce.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped Fresh herbs brighten the dish.
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme Adds an earthy note.
  • 1 zucchini, diced Increases vegetable content and moisture.
  • 1/2 lb mushrooms, sliced Delivers umami goodness.
  • 2 jarred roasted red peppers, diced Optional but highly recommended.
  • 28 oz canned Italian crushed tomatoes Forms the base of the sauce.
  • 24 oz marinara sauce Enhances flavor complexity.
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes Offers a mild kick.
  • 1 tsp kosher salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper Adds depth to the seasoning.
For the Pasta
  • 1 lb whole wheat pasta (ziti) Provides structure and fiber.
For the Cheesy Topping
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, diced Melts beautifully for a creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Adds a salty, cheesy finish.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground turkey and diced onion. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until browned.
  3. Incorporate the diced zucchini, sliced mushrooms, diced roasted red peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let simmer for about 10 minutes.
  5. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat ziti until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain and cool.
  6. Combine the cooked pasta with the Bolognese sauce and fold in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Transfer to a greased baking dish, spread evenly and top with remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 850mgFiber: 6gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For a perfect texture, ensure pasta is cooked al dente and consider layering sauce and pasta when baking.

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