Chicken & Spinach Ziti Bake - Meal 1 Option
A simple, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for weight loss, meal prep, or a cozy dinner. This recipe combines lean protein, leafy greens, and whole-grain pasta for a satisfying, balanced dish.
Note: This is geared around a daily 1,200 calorie goal. Please see my meal plan how-to for more information!
Ingredients (Serves 1–2)
1 cup brown rice ziti pasta
½ container ground turkey (~6 oz)
1.5 cups fresh spinach
½ cup tomato sauce
½ cup cottage cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
Instructions
Cook the pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the turkey: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices.
Wilt the spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet with the turkey and cook for 1–2 minutes until just wilted.
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, turkey-spinach mixture, tomato sauce, and cottage cheese. Stir until evenly combined.
Bake (optional for warm, melty texture): Transfer the mixture to a small oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, until warmed through. If desired, top with a sprinkle of cottage cheese before baking.
Serve: Enjoy hot, straight from the oven.
Meal Prep Tip
Batch prep: Double or triple the recipe and store in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
Freezing: This dish freezes well — simply portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Add variety: Swap in different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to keep flavors interesting throughout the week.
