A delightful twist on classic spaghetti, this casserole combines layers of cheesy goodness with a hearty meat sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the perfect texture for your casserole.
In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey, diced onion, and chopped green bell pepper over medium heat until the turkey is browned and the vegetables are softened.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Stir the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked turkey and vegetables, then simmer for 5 minutes.
Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain.
Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten eggs, and melted butter. Mix well.
Ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated with the mixture for a cohesive base.
Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly in the bottom of a 13x9 inch baking dish.
Press the spaghetti mixture gently to create a uniform layer.
Spread the cottage cheese evenly over the spaghetti layer.
Use a spatula to spread the cottage cheese smoothly.
Pour the meat sauce over the cottage cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
Ensure the sauce covers the entire surface for consistent flavor.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
For a golden crust, you can broil the casserole for the last few minutes.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set the layers.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your delicious casserole.
Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
