Description
This Turkey Cauliflower Baked Ziti is a low-carb, hearty casserole that swaps traditional pasta with cauliflower florets, combined with lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, and a savory pizza sauce. Baked to perfection with a cheesy topping, this healthy twist on a classic Italian favorite is perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Sauce
- 1 head of cauliflower (cut into florets and chopped)
- 2 ½ cups Pizza Sauce
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
Meat
- 1 lb. lean ground turkey
Dairy & Eggs
- 4 eggs
- ⅓ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare and Cook Cauliflower: In a large Dutch oven, combine the chopped cauliflower florets and pizza sauce, stirring well to coat the cauliflower evenly. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the sauce to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the cauliflower cook until it is fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Sauté the Turkey: While the cauliflower is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground turkey and cook thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet and set the turkey aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and fine sea salt until well combined. After the cauliflower is tender, stir the fresh baby spinach into the pot with the cauliflower and pizza sauce, allowing it to simmer briefly to cook off any excess moisture and prevent the casserole from becoming watery. Remove the pot from the heat, then stir in the cooked turkey and the egg-cheese mixture until evenly incorporated. Spread the mixture evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the Dutch oven or transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the eggs have set and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
- Serve and Store: Remove from the oven and allow the baked ziti to cool for about 10 minutes to firm up. Serve warm as a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional baked pasta. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Use lean ground turkey to keep the dish lower in fat.
- Make sure to drain excess moisture from the spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
- Substitute Pecorino Romano with Parmesan if preferred.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking.
- This dish reheats well in the microwave or oven.
