Transform Your Cooking with the NUWAVE Bravo XL – The Ultimate Air Fryer & Toaster Oven in One!

Air Fryer Convection Toaster Oven Countertop
Buy Now →This Creamy Turkey and Bacon Spaghetti Bake is a hearty and delicious dish that combines tender spaghetti, rich turkey, smoky bacon, and a creamy cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you crave comfort food with a gourmet touch. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, this recipe is bound to become a household favorite!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 300 g (10.6 oz) spaghetti
- 200 g (7 oz) bacon, diced
- 1 purple onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 700 g (1.5 lbs) minced turkey
- 200 g (7 oz) tomato sauce
- 40 g (1.4 oz) butter
- 30 g (1 oz) all-purpose flour
- 500 ml (16.9 oz) milk
- 150 g (5.3 oz) hard mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Salt, ground black pepper, dried sweet paprika, and dried oregano (to taste)
Directions
- Cook the Spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped purple onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the minced turkey, season with salt, black pepper, sweet paprika, and oregano. Cook until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the tomato sauce and cooked bacon. Simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and whisk until smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce. Toss until evenly coated.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the spaghetti mixture and gently mix.
- Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Spaghetti:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly grated mozzarella for better melting and flavor.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the turkey mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cook the spaghetti slightly under al dente if you prefer firmer pasta in baked dishes.
Nutritional Benefits
- Turkey is a lean protein source, low in fat and high in essential nutrients.
- The dish provides calcium and protein from the cheese and milk.
- Adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini can further boost the nutritional value.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten, dairy, and meat.
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and spaghetti.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
- The dish can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for family dinners.
- The combination of smoky bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful turkey is irresistible.
- Simple ingredients come together to create a restaurant-quality dish.
- It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Conclusion
This Creamy Turkey and Bacon Spaghetti Bake is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy sauce, smoky bacon, and hearty turkey, it’s a satisfying dish for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease. Try it today and enjoy a warm, cheesy delight!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?
Yes, ground beef works perfectly as a substitute for turkey. - Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, cheddar, Gouda, or Parmesan are great alternatives to mozzarella. - Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms can be added to the turkey mixture. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. - How do I prevent the spaghetti from drying out?
Ensure the spaghetti is well-coated with sauce before baking and cover it with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking. - Can I use canned tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?
Yes, blend canned tomatoes into a smooth sauce or use them as-is for a chunkier texture. - How do I make the dish spicier?
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the turkey mixture for extra heat. - Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. - Can I use almond milk for the cheese sauce?
Yes, almond milk works, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy. - What can I serve with this dish?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair wonderfully with this bake.