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Baked Penne with Tomatoes and Turkey Recipe

Baked Penne with Tomatoes and Turkey

This hearty baked penne combines ground turkey and crushed tomatoes with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and fresh basil. It is a cozy oven-baked pasta dinner that makes about 6 servings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Sauce
  • 1 pound (450 g) Penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium Medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 pound (450 g) Ground turkey
  • 1 28-ounce can (794 g) Crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
Seasoning and Cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup Ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese

Method
 

Step-by-Step
  1. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly oil a 13-by-9-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until just shy of al dente, usually 1–2 minutes less than the package directions, then drain.
  3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened, then add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the ground turkey and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, kosher salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Combine the drained penne, tomato-turkey sauce, and ricotta. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the pasta. Bake for about 20 minutes, until bubbling and lightly browned.
  8. Let the baked penne rest for 5 minutes before serving. Finish with extra fresh basil.

Notes

Cook the penne 1–2 minutes less than the package directions because it continues cooking in the oven. Rest the casserole for 5 minutes after baking so the sauce can set and the portions are easier to serve. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat until hot throughout.