This isn't just an easy casserole to make, it's absolutely outstanding. It's kid-friendly too!
1 lb. 93% lean ground turkey
1 T. olive oil
1 c. chopped onion
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1/4 c. finely diced celery
1/4 c. finely diced carrots
1 c. sliced mushrooms
14.5 oz. can petite diced tomatoes, drained
2 c. marinara sauce
2 c. water
1/2 t. Italian seasoning
1 t. Kosher salt
8 oz. shredded Mozzarella cheese
8 oz. elbow macaroni, uncooked (whole wheat, if desired)
In a large deep non-stick skillet, brown turkey over high heat until cooked through, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks; season with a pinch of salt. Transfer to a bowl.
Add olive oil to the skillet; reduce heat to medium; add onion, red pepper, celery and carrots; sauté until vegetables are soft, about 6 - 7 minutes.
Return turkey to the skillet with remaining ingredients, except for the macaroni and cheese. Bring to a boil; lower heat to medium-low; simmer for 20 minutes.
While simmering, preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Spoon just enough of the turkey and vegetable mixture to cover the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish;
cover with uncooked pasta. Spoon remaining sauce mixture evenly over the top; sprinkle with Mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil.
Bake 50-55 minutes. Remove from oven. Let stand covered, for 15 minutes.
Makes 8 servings.