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Turkey Manicotti

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Turkey manicotti transforms the traditional Italian favorite into a lighter, protein-rich dish without sacrificing the comforting appeal of the original. These pasta tubes, filled with seasoned ground turkey, creamy ricotta, and flavorful herbs, then baked in rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese, offer a perfect balance of wholesome ingredients and indulgent taste. Whether you’re looking to reduce red meat consumption, add more lean protein to your diet, or simply try a new spin on a beloved classic, turkey manicotti delivers satisfying flavor while keeping the dish lighter than its beef counterpart.

How to Make Perfect Turkey Manicotti

How To make Turkey Manicotti

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 1 pound lean ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • 12-14 manicotti shells
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality jarred)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook manicotti shells for about 5-6 minutes (slightly less than package directions for al dente). They should be flexible but still firm. Drain and rinse with cool water to stop cooking. Set aside on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the turkey mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground turkey, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Add dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, beaten egg, and fresh parsley. Stir until well combined. Add the cooled turkey mixture and mix thoroughly.
  4. Preheat the oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Assemble the dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Fill each manicotti shell with the turkey-cheese mixture. This can be done using:
    • A piping bag or zip-top bag with corner cut off
    • A small spoon to carefully fill from each end
    • Gently opening a slit in each shell, filling, then closing (if shells are delicate)
  6. Arrange and sauce: Place filled manicotti in the prepared baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over the top, ensuring all pasta is covered to prevent drying.
  7. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and beginning to brown.
  9. Rest and serve: Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

  • Prepare components ahead: Cook the turkey mixture and prepare the cheese filling up to 2 days in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
  • Assemble ahead: The entire dish can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking, and add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
  • Freeze before baking: Assemble the dish, but don’t bake. Cover tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding about 15 minutes to the baking time.
  • Freeze after baking: Cool completely, then portion into individual servings or freeze the entire dish. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Individual portions can be microwaved for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For larger portions, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until hot throughout.

Variations and Customizations

  • Spinach Boost: Add 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (sautéed and drained) or ½ cup thawed frozen spinach (well drained) to the filling for extra nutrition.
  • Mushroom Enhancement: Add 8 oz finely chopped mushrooms, sautéed until golden, to the turkey mixture for added umami flavor.
  • Three-Cheese Version: Use a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and fontina or provolone in the filling for more complex flavor.
  • Spicy Option: Double the red pepper flakes and add 2 tablespoons of minced hot peppers to the turkey mixture.
  • Sauce Alternatives:
    • Creamy rosé sauce (blend marinara with a splash of cream)
    • White sauce (béchamel) with a layer of marinara on bottom
    • Pesto cream sauce for a vibrant green option
  • Topping Ideas:
    • Buttered breadcrumbs for extra crunch
    • Blend of Italian cheeses instead of just mozzarella
    • Fresh cherry tomatoes added during the last 10 minutes of baking

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic Sides: Serve with garlic bread and a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
  • Vegetable Pairings: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant complement the flavors well.
  • Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs perfectly with the tomato sauce and turkey.
  • Family-Style Presentation: Serve directly from the baking dish alongside a large salad and bread basket for casual gatherings.
  • Individual Servings: For more formal occasions, place 2-3 manicotti on each plate with a drizzle of additional warmed sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.

Nutritional Benefits of Turkey Manicotti

Turkey Manicotti variations

Choosing ground turkey over beef offers several nutritional advantages:

  • Lower fat content: Turkey contains less saturated fat than ground beef, especially when using lean or extra-lean varieties.
  • Fewer calories: A typical serving of turkey manicotti contains about 20% fewer calories than traditional beef versions.
  • High-quality protein: Turkey provides all essential amino acids needed for muscle maintenance and overall health.
  • Nutrient-rich: Turkey contains significant amounts of B vitamins, selenium, and zinc.
  • Versatile flavor profile: The mild flavor of turkey readily absorbs the Italian seasonings and complements the cheeses and sauce.

Conclusion

Turkey manicotti represents the perfect compromise between wholesome eating and comfort food indulgence. By substituting lean ground turkey for traditional beef, you maintain the dish’s satisfying nature while creating a lighter, protein-rich meal suitable for any occasion. The combination of tender pasta tubes, flavorful turkey filling, and rich tomato sauce creates a memorable dish that appeals to both traditionalists and those seeking healthier alternatives. Whether prepared for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, this updated classic delivers both on nutrition and delicious Italian flavors that everyone will appreciate.

Jennifer Glover
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