Turkey Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Pasta Bake

• 12 oz turkey sausage, casing removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add turkey sausage and cook until browned.
4. 4 Add onion and bell pepper to the skillet, sauté until softened.
5. 5 Stir in garlic, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
6. 6 Mix in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. 7 Combine cooked pasta, ricotta, and half the marinara mixture in a greased baking dish.
8. 8 Top with remaining sauce and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
9. 9 Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden.
10. 10 Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add a layer of sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Use ground turkey instead of turkey sausage for a leaner option.

Substitutions

• Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a tangier taste.
• Use marinara sauce from a jar if you're short on time.

Pairings

• Steamed broccoli
• Garlic bread

Nutrition

Tips

• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
• Feel free to add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for extra indulgence.

FAQ