One Pan Protein Packed Baked Ziti

When life gets busy — especially with kids in sports — having a go-to meal that’s both hearty and wholesome is a game-changer. This protein-packed, meaty baked ziti is the ultimate dinner solution for active families. Loaded with savory ground meat, extra veggies, and a generous helping of cheesy, pasta goodness, it’s a comfort food classic with a nutritious twist. Whether you’re fueling up before a big game or need a quick, satisfying option after a late practice, this dish has you covered. The best part? It’s make-ahead friendly, freezes beautifully, and is guaranteed to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients (serves 6-8)

• 2lbs Ground Turkey or Beef

• 1 box Pasta (penne, ziti, rotini or rigatoni work well)

• 28 ounce can Crushed Tomatoes (or 1 jar pasta sauce)

• 3 cups Baby Spinach

• 1 cup Part Skim Ricotta Cheese

• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

• 3 cloves Garlic or 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder

• 1/2 Onion or 1 tsp Onion Powder

• 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning

Directions

1. Fill large pot with water for the pasta and bring to a boil. While that is heating up, brown the ground meat in a large pan. Preheat your oven to 400F.

2. Once the meat begins to mostly brown, add the garlic, onion and Italian seasoning. Cook till everything is nicely browned, then turn off the heat and set the pan aside.

3. By then the water should be boiled. Cook the pasta per its directions. Then drain.

4. Using that same large pot, add the pasta, sauce and meat together and mix well.

5. Add the spinach and 2 spoonfuls of the Ricotta cheese in and mix through.

6. Add this mixture to a 9×13 baking dish (or a tin one if you plan to freeze this for later). Then top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 35-45 minutes.