Creamy Tomato Turkey Rigatoni Bake

• 12 oz rigatoni
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
4. 4 Stir in garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
5. 5 Add crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
6. 6 Stir in heavy cream and cook until slightly thickened.
7. 7 In a large bowl, mix cooked rigatoni, turkey sauce, ricotta, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese until well combined.
8. 8 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
9. 9 Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. 10 Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Large mixing bowl

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
• Use ground chicken for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions

• Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option.
• Use penne pasta if rigatoni is unavailable.

Pairings

• Steamed broccoli
• Italian bread

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, toast the dried herbs in a dry pan for a few seconds before adding to the sauce.
• Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad.
• Pair with garlic bread for a hearty meal.

FAQ