Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- ¼ cup salted butter
- 1 small onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup all purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk)
(you can use half and half for a richer flavor
- 1 cup low sodium vegetable broth
- 3 cups dry penne pasta 275 grams)
(high fibre if desired
- 2 cups turkey kielbasa 280 grams)
(halved and sliced
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F if baking right away (optional: you can also cover and refrigerate or freeze for another day). Lightly grease a 9x13" baking dish.
- 2
Melt the butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat.
- 3
Add the onion and cook until softened and translucent. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and cook 1 minute.
- 4
Stir in the flour until no white streaks remain. Cook for 1 minute.
- 5
Whisk in the milk and broth, and cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly. This should take between 5-10 minutes.
- 6
Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta to al dente in a large pot of boiling, salted water (according to package directions). Drain.
- 7
Combine cooked pasta, thickened sauce, and sliced kielbasa in baking dish and stir well.
- 8
Top with shredded cheese and bake until bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. You can also place in the refrigerator to cool, then cover and refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Bake
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 30 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a hearty, satisfying meal that still feels wholesome? This Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Bake is your answer, bringing together familiar comfort with a lighter touch perfect for any weeknight dinner.
This recipe shines by combining tender penne pasta with savory turkey kielbasa, all coated in a rich, creamy sauce, and finished with gooey, melted mozzarella. It's a comforting classic that balances delicious flavor with thoughtful ingredients, ensuring a crowd-pleasing dish that's both substantial and easy on the palate.
Expect a symphony of comforting flavors and textures in every forkful. The turkey kielbasa offers a delightful smoky, savory note that pairs perfectly with the subtle aromatics of onion and garlic. The creamy sauce provides a silky backdrop, beautifully clinging to the penne, while the blanket of mozzarella adds a wonderful cheesy pull and golden-brown crust. It’s a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl, satisfying enough for the heartiest appetites without feeling overly heavy.
Customizing this pasta bake is simple. For an even richer, more indulgent sauce, you can easily swap the whole milk for half and half. If you're looking to boost the nutritional value, opt for high-fiber penne pasta. While Italian seasoning provides a classic flavor, feel free to adjust it to your liking, perhaps adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
This Turkey Kielbasa Pasta Bake is ideal for a comforting family dinner or when you need a reliable, delicious meal that comes together without fuss. Serve it simply on its own, letting its robust flavors shine.