Here’s a list of all the ingredients for a **ground turkey and goat cheese pasta bake**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help your recipe rank higher:
- **1 lb ground turkey** (lean ground turkey for a healthier option)
- **8 oz pasta** (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well)
- **4 oz goat cheese** (creamy goat cheese for a rich flavor)
- **1 cup marinara sauce** (homemade or store-bought marinara)
- **1/2 cup heavy cream** (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version)
- **1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese** (for a gooey, cheesy topping)
- **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese** (adds a nutty, savory flavor)
- **1 small onion, diced** (yellow or white onion for sweetness)
- **2 cloves garlic, minced** (fresh garlic for bold flavor)
- **1 tsp Italian seasoning** (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- **1/2 tsp red pepper flakes** (optional, for a spicy kick)
- **Salt and black pepper to taste** (season to perfection)
- **Fresh basil or parsley** (for garnish, adds freshness and color)
This **ground turkey pasta bake** is a **comfort food** favorite, perfect for a **family dinner** or **meal prep**. The combination of **goat cheese** and **marinara sauce** creates a creamy, tangy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress!
Steps
**Ground Turkey and Goat Cheese Pasta Bake: A Flavorful Family Dinner**
Looking for a comforting, protein-packed dinner that’s easy to make and full of flavor? This **ground turkey and goat cheese pasta bake** is the perfect solution. Combining lean ground turkey, creamy goat cheese, and al dente pasta, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under an hour. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious, SEO-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
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### **Ingredients for Ground Turkey and Goat Cheese Pasta Bake**
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work well)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pasta bake cooks evenly and achieves a golden, bubbly top.
2. **Cook the Pasta**
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
3. **Brown the Ground Turkey**
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
4. **Combine Ingredients**
Stir in the marinara sauce and cooked pasta into the skillet with the ground turkey. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Add half of the crumbled goat cheese and stir until it begins to melt into the sauce.
5. **Assemble the Pasta Bake**
Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining goat cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan evenly over the top.
6. **Bake to Perfection**
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly golden.
7. **Garnish and Serve**
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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### **Tips for the Best Pasta Bake**
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for a richer flavor.
- Substitute ground chicken or beef if preferred.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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This **ground turkey and goat cheese pasta bake** is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With its creamy texture, savory ground turkey, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal!