Cheesy Marinara & Turkey Protein Pasta
A hearty and protein-packed pasta dish featuring lean ground turkey simmered in marinara sauce with a blend of cottage, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. It’s flavorful and creamy, perfect for a satisfying family dinner or meal prep for the week.
Method
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Brown ground turkey in a non-stick skillet, and season to taste.
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Add the marinara sauce and let simmer while the pasta cooks.
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Cook the protein penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain well.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the turkey and marinara sauce.
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Add cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses; stir to combine evenly and heat through.
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Divide into 8 equal portions and top with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 417.08kcal |
| Total Fat | 14g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 40.19g |
| Protein | 32.58g |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground chicken or beef instead of ground turkey?
Yes, ground chicken or lean beef can be substituted for ground turkey. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
What if I don’t have cottage cheese?
You can replace cottage cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture and protein boost.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is gluten-free only if you use gluten-free pasta instead of Barilla Plus Protein Penne Pasta.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
How do I prevent the cheese from clumping when mixed with pasta?
Mix the cheeses into the warm, but not boiling, pasta and sauce mixture, stirring constantly until melted and evenly distributed to avoid clumping.
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