Baked Turkey Riggies are a cozy, hearty dish featuring mouthwatering pasta, tender turkey, and a tasty creamy tomato sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food!
I love how easy it is to make one big dish that’s great for leftovers too. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese on top? It’s a hug in a bowl! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rigatoni Pasta: This pasta shape holds up well in hearty dishes. If you can’t find rigatoni, penne or ziti work great too! For gluten-free options, try quinoa or brown rice pasta.
Ground Turkey: Ground turkey is a lean choice for this dish. You can swap it for ground chicken or even vegetarian options like lentils or meat substitutes if you prefer.
Onion & Garlic: These provide a flavor base. If you need a milder flavor, shallots can be a nice substitute. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Mushrooms: They add earthy flavors and texture. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them or replace them with diced zucchini or spinach for extra veggies.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, heavy cream works wonders. For a lighter version, substitute with evaporated milk or use dairy-free cream alternatives.
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted on Top?
The cheese is what makes baked pasta special, so getting it perfectly melted is key! Here’s how to achieve that cheesy goodness:
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor. Mozzarella is stretchy, while Parmesan adds a nutty taste.
- Sprinkle the cheese evenly on top of the pasta to ensure even melting.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to help the cheese melt without burning.
- Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to let it brown slightly.
By following these tips, you’ll have a beautifully melted cheese layer that makes this dish irresistible!
Baked Turkey Riggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 1 lb rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb ground turkey
Vegetables:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced (or jarred)
Seasonings:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauces and Cheeses:
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to dinner! Perfect for a weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your riggies bake evenly and get that lovely brown top.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it’s cooked but still has a little bite to it. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, then cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Brown the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.
5. Add Veggies:
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and roasted red peppers. Cook everything together for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened.
6. Season the Mixture:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
7. Combine the Sauces:
Pour in the marinara sauce and mix it in with the turkey and veggie blend. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
8. Make it Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream to create a rich and creamy texture. This will take the dish to the next level!
9. Mix Pasta and Sauce:
Combine the cooked rigatoni with the turkey sauce mixture, making sure every piece of pasta is well coated with sauce.
10. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into your greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top for that melty finish!
11. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.
12. Garnish and Serve:
Once your riggies are done baking, remove them from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting and delightful dish!
This comforting baked pasta features tender rigatoni and seasoned ground turkey in a rich, creamy tomato sauce topped with melted cheeses and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute work well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using a plant-based option.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and substitute it with more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or lentils. You can enhance the dish with extra beans or a meat substitute to keep it hearty.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Baked Turkey Riggies?
Yes, you can freeze baked turkey riggies! Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.