Marinara Turkey Tortellini Bake

• 12 oz frozen cheese-filled tortellini
• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook tortellini according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a skillet over medium heat, cook turkey until browned; drain excess fat.
4. 4 Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. 5 In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, and Parmesan; season with salt and pepper.
6. 6 Layer half the tortellini in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. 7 Spread ricotta mixture over tortellini, then layer remaining tortellini.
8. 8 Pour turkey marinara sauce over the top.
9. 9 Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the casserole.
10. 10 Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until bubbly and cheese is golden.
11. 11 Garnish with parsley before serving, if desired.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Substitute chicken or beef for turkey.

Substitutions

• Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella for a lower-fat option.
• Substitute gluten-free pasta for gluten-free diners.

Pairings

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Red wine

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce.
• This bake can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage

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

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

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