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–+ servings

Cottage Cheese Baked Ziti

A comforting baked ziti made with ground turkey, creamy cottage, and ricotta cheese, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base

  • 16 oz Ziti (like Barilla Protein+ or Kaizen) You can also use penne or any similar pasta shape.
  • ¼ cup Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Or vegetable broth.

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb Ground Turkey Can be substituted with ground chicken or lean beef.
  • 3 tbsp Garlic (minced) Use fresh for best flavor.
  • ½ cup White Onion (diced) Fresh onion enhances taste.
  • Salt and Pepper to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust based on personal preference.

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 2 ½ cups Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • ½ tsp Italian Seasoning
  • ½ tsp Onion Powder

Cheese

  • ½ cup Low Fat Cottage Cheese Can use dairy-free alternatives.
  • ½ cup Low Fat Ricotta Cheese Consider plant-based options as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Low-Moisture Mozzarella (divided into ¾ cups)
  • ½ cup Parmesan (shredded or grated)

Garnish

  • Fresh Basil For garnish before serving.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti for a few minutes less than package instructions; aim for al dente.
  • In a deep skillet, add the chicken broth, garlic, and onion. Cook until the onions are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add browned ground turkey and cook until fully done.

Mixing

  • Season cooked turkey with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Add marinara sauce and let simmer.
  • Blend cottage cheese and ricotta until smooth, then fold in mozzarella and all Parmesan.

Assembly and Baking

  • Drain pasta, then stir into the turkey mixture to combine.
  • In a 9x13 casserole dish, layer half the pasta and turkey mixture, then a layer of cheese blend. Add the remaining pasta on top and finish with remaining mozzarella.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 25 minutes until golden brown.
  • Let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil.

Notes

For perfect results, do not overcook the pasta and always let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Keyword Baked Ziti, comfort food, Cottage Cheese, easy dinner, Family Meal
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