Turkey Parm Casserole has become my go-to weeknight dinner, and I’m so excited to share this version with you! It reminds me of cozy family gatherings, the kind where the aroma of simmering marinara and melting cheese fills the entire house. This isn’t just any casserole; it’s an easy turkey parmigiana casserole that’s incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to whip up. If you’ve ever wondered how to make turkey parm casserole that’s both delicious and family-friendly, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready for a cheesy, comforting meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Turkey Parm Casserole
Whipping up this ground turkey parmesan casserole is a breeze with these simple ingredients. I love that most of these are pantry staples! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground turkey – I find 93% lean works best for flavor without being too greasy.
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce – Use your favorite brand, or even homemade!
- 8 ounces pasta – Penne, rotini, or ziti are great choices for this casserole.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – This adds a wonderful creaminess and helps bind everything together.
- 1 large egg – Room temperature is ideal, but it’s not a dealbreaker if it’s cold.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated always has the best flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – Season generously!
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For that irresistible cheesy topping.
How to Make Turkey Parm Casserole
This recipe for turkey parmesan casserole with pasta comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes!
- Step 1: Get your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper. This makes cleanup so much easier!
- Step 2: Cook your 8 ounces pasta according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain it well and set it aside. Don’t rinse it – the starches help the sauce cling beautifully.
- Step 3: While the pasta cooks, brown the 1 pound ground turkey in a large skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s no longer pink, drain off any excess fat. Trust me, this step really makes a difference in the final flavor of your turkey parmesan casserole with pasta.
- Step 4: Pour in the 1 jar marinara sauce and sprinkle in the 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a minute or two. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. The smell of the sauce simmering is just heavenly!
- Step 5: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This creamy mixture adds such a lovely richness.
- Step 6: Now, let’s assemble this delicious turkey parmesan casserole with pasta! Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- Step 7: Spoon half of the savory turkey and marinara mixture over the pasta. Then, dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of that.
- Step 8: Repeat the layers: the remaining pasta, the rest of the turkey mixture, and the remaining ricotta mixture.
- Step 9: Sprinkle the 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. You want that gorgeous, bubbly, golden-brown crust.
- Step 10: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows everything to set up nicely. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!
Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Parm Casserole
I’ve made this dish countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure it’s always a winner. Follow these tips for a truly exceptional experience!
- Don’t skip draining the fat from the ground turkey; it prevents a greasy texture.
- For an even richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
- Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking is crucial for it to set properly, making it easier to serve.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the marinara with the turkey a bit longer before assembling.
What’s the secret to perfect Turkey Parm Casserole?
The key to a truly perfect best turkey parmesan casserole lies in the creamy ricotta mixture. Combining it with an egg and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious layer that adds incredible depth and moisture, making it far superior to just using plain ricotta. For more tips on achieving perfect results, check out these latest recipes.
Can I make Turkey Parm Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Italian turkey casserole recipe is fantastic for meal prep. Assemble the entire casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Turkey Parm Casserole?
A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta, which can lead to a mushy casserole. Aim for al dente! Also, ensure you drain the grease from the turkey well to avoid a greasy final dish. Finally, don’t skip the resting time after baking; it’s essential for structure. For more guidance on cooking techniques, you can explore resources on cooking techniques.
Best Ways to Serve Turkey Parm Casserole
This comforting dish is so versatile! Serving it with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette is a fantastic way to balance the richness. For a truly complete Italian turkey casserole recipe experience, consider pairing it with some crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. A side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also adds a lovely fresh element that complements the savory flavors beautifully. It’s a meal that feels special enough for company but is simple enough for any night of the week.
Nutrition Facts for Turkey Parm Casserole
This recipe yields about 6 servings, and here are the approximate nutritional details per serving. It’s a satisfying meal that balances protein and carbs nicely. For more information on nutritional values, you can refer to general nutritional guidelines.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Turkey Parm Casserole
This make ahead turkey parm casserole is a lifesaver for busy schedules! Once your delicious turkey parmesan bake has cooled completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and they’ll be good in the freezer for up to 3 months. This Italian turkey casserole recipe freezes beautifully! For other make-ahead meal ideas, check out these creamy spinach mushroom shrimp recipes.
Reheating is super simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm them in the microwave or in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Frozen portions should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the same methods. Enjoy your flavorful Italian turkey casserole anytime!
Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Parm Casserole
What is turkey parmesan casserole?
A turkey parmesan casserole is essentially a baked Italian-American dish that swaps traditional chicken for ground turkey or turkey breast. It features layers of pasta, a turkey and marinara sauce mixture, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting and family-friendly way to enjoy classic Italian flavors.
Can I substitute chicken for turkey in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a chicken parmesan casserole substitute or just prefer chicken, you can easily swap out the ground turkey for an equal amount of ground chicken. The cooking process and other ingredients remain the same, so it’s a simple and delicious alternative. You might also enjoy this chicken parmesan sloppy joes recipe.
How do I make a gluten-free turkey parm casserole?
To make a gluten-free turkey parm casserole, the easiest switch is to use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional wheat pasta. You’ll also want to ensure your marinara sauce and any other added ingredients are certified gluten-free. The rest of the recipe, including the turkey and cheese layers, is naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers of this turkey parmesan casserole recipe?
The best way to reheat this turkey parmesan casserole recipe is to ensure it stays moist. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel, or place a slice in an oven-safe dish with a tablespoon of water or marinara sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps keep the pasta from drying out.
Variations of Turkey Parm Casserole You Can Try
This turkey parm casserole is so adaptable! If you’re looking to try something new, here are a few ideas. Creating a gluten-free turkey parm casserole is as simple as swapping the pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. For a lighter meal, you can make a healthy turkey parmesan casserole by using whole wheat pasta and adding extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the turkey mixture. Another fun twist is to try a no-pasta version, using sliced zucchini or eggplant as the base for a low-carb option. You could even experiment with different cheeses besides mozzarella and Parmesan! For another healthy option, consider this keto white chicken chili.
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Amazing Turkey Parm Casserole: Easy & Cheesy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe provides a simple and delicious way to make Turkey Parm Casserole. It’s a family-friendly dish perfect for dinner. You’ll learn how to prepare a cheesy turkey parmesan bake that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a casserole dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the turkey mixture, and then half of the ricotta mixture.
- Repeat the layers.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for a few minutes before serving your Turkey Parm Casserole.
Notes
- For a gluten-free turkey parm casserole, use gluten-free pasta.
- You can add your favorite vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the turkey mixture.
- This recipe can be made ahead and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
