TURKEY BAKED ZITI

©2016livingwithlandyn

This is a KID FAVORITE and is requested weekly. Super simple to throw together. I always try to keep my pantry stocked with these ingredients. Perfect for those busy weeknights. Most times I make ahead in the morning, cover and refrigerate until I'm ready. You'll just need to tack on about 15 more minutes to the cooking time. It's one of my go-to meals and something I feel good about serving to my family. It's healthy + filling and flavorful. I'm certain once you make it, they'll be asking for seconds. 

• 1 lb Jennie-O Ground Turkey Meat 
• 1 lb box Ziti pasta, whole wheat 
• 15 oz Part-Skim Ricotta Cheese
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 28 oz can organic crushed tomatoes 
• 6 oz. can of organic tomato paste
• 3/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 8-10 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
• salt + pepper

Boil pasta, drain and set aside. In a medium skillet brown turkey. In a large bowl combine crushed tomatoes + fresh herbs + tomato paste + salt & pepper to taste, and browned turkey meat. Add cooked ziti noodles and mix well. Set aside.

In a medium bowl combine ricotta, egg, parmesan cheese,  1/2 of mozzarella cheese and onion and garlic powder. Mix well. 

Grease a 9x13 baking dish. Layer 1/3 of turkey/ziti mixture, and dot with spoonfuls of ricotta all over 1st layer. Repeat two more times. Cover with remaining mozzarella cheese. 

Bake in a preheated 350° oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is golden. Let stand for 5-10 minutes after cooking. 

Just add garlic bread + salad, and dinner is DONE!

Serves 6 

Enjoy!
Xx
L