- Fresh **Tomatoes**: For natural sweetness and lycopene richness
- **Ground Turkey**: Lean protein source, perfect for heart health
- **Onion**: Cuts and sautéed to add flavor
- **Bell Peppers**: Adds color and crunch, rich in vitamins
- **Garlic Cloves**: Minced, for enhancing the savory profile
- **Penne Pasta**: Your choice of pasta shape; can be substituted with other types like fusilli or rigatoni
- **Mozzarella Cheese**: Shredded, to melt beautifully on top
- **Parmesan Cheese**: Grated, for a nutty and creamy flavor boost
- **Olive Oil**: For sautéing vegetables, gives a rich taste
- **Salt and Pepper**: To season the dish, adjust according to your preference
- **Herbs**: Optional but recommended (e.g., oregano, basil), for an authentic Italian touch
- **Marinara Sauce**: Hearty and flavorful base; can be homemade or store-bought
- **Nutritional Yeast**: Optional, adds a cheesy flavor without dairy
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Steps
### Cheesy Tomato and Turkey Bake Pasta Recipe
Creating a delicious and comforting Cheese Tomato and Turkey Bake Pasta is easier than you might think! Follow these detailed steps to make this hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
#### Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or large pan
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Pasta:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.
2. **Cook Turkey and Vegetables:**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add ground turkey to the skillet; cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Add Tomato Mixture:**
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and diced fresh tomatoes.
- Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes or until it thickens slightly. If too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
4. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:**
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the tomato-turkey mixture.
- Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
5. **Assemble and Bake:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the pasta mixture into a large baking dish.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
- Cover loosely with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. **Bake Until Golden Brown:**
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. **Serve and Enjoy!**
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
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This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great addition to your meal planning. Enjoy creating this comforting dish with loved ones!