Marinara Turkey Rigatoni Bake
A comforting, hearty casserole with tender rigatoni, lean ground turkey, and a rich, tangy marinara sauce, topped with melted bubbly mozzarella.
Total: 60 minPrep: 15 minCook: 45 min8 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 12 ounces rigatoni
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Cook rigatoni according to package directions until al dente; drain.
- 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink.
- 4 Stir in marinara sauce, water, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- 5 In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, combine cooked rigatoni and turkey mixture.
- 6 Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top.
- 7 Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- 8 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey with ground beef or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Substitutions
- If rigatoni isn't available, use penne or ziti.
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives.
Pairings
- Garlic bread
- Steamed broccoli
- Caesar salad
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
12g fat
Carbs:
38g carbohydrates
Protein:
24g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
8g sugar
Sodium:
600mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, use homemade marinara sauce.
- Adding a handful of fresh basil before serving boosts the aroma.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat covered with foil at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.
FAQ
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake up to the point of baking, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Then bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.