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Homemade Roasted Red Pepper Turkey Meatball Ziti recipe photo

Roasted Red Pepper Turkey Meatball Ziti

This Roasted Red Pepper Turkey Meatball Ziti is a comforting, flavorful baked pasta dish with juicy turkey meatballs and smoky roasted peppers. Perfect for busy weeknights!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 jar marinara sauce about 24 ounces
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large pot
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Baking dish or casserole pan
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Roasted Red Pepper Turkey Meatball Ziti Cooking Guide
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped roasted red peppers, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, minced garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep meatballs tender.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides for 5-7 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked yet.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, combine cooked ziti, browned meatballs, and marinara sauce. Stir gently to combine evenly.
  5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and sauce is heated through.
  6. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or Parmesan if desired. Serve with a green salad or garlic bread.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Brown meatballs before baking to prevent them from falling apart and to enhance flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushy texture after baking.
  • Allow dish to rest a few minutes after baking for best flavor and texture.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.