Baked Ziti
A lighter take on the classic Italian-American comfort food. Layers of ziti pasta, a rich meat sauce packed with veggies, and a sensible amount of creamy cheese, baked to golden perfection. A satisfying family favorite.
For 8 servings
9 steps. 40 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- 2
Step 2
TIPSlightly undercooking the pasta is key, as it will finish cooking in the oven and absorb some of the sauce without getting mushy. - 3
Step 3
- a.While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- b.Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until fully browned (6-8 minutes).
- c.Carefully drain off any excess fat from the pot.
- d.Add the chopped onion, carrot, and zucchini. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened.
- e.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
TIPAdding finely diced vegetables not only boosts fiber and nutrients but also adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce. - 4
Step 4
- a.Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- b.Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- c.Cover and let it gently simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 5
Step 5
TIPThe egg acts as a binder, giving the ricotta layer a creamier, more stable texture that holds up well after baking. - 6
Step 6
- a.Add the drained pasta to the pot with the meat sauce and stir gently to coat everything.
- b.Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- c.Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta and gently spread it out.
- d.Top with the remaining pasta and sauce mixture.
- e.Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- 7
Step 7
TIPFor a crispier top, you can broil for the last 1-2 minutes, but watch it very carefully to prevent burning. - 8
Step 8
- 9
Step 9
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use part-skim cheeses and lean ground beef to significantly reduce the saturated fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- 2Draining the fat from the ground beef after browning is a simple but effective way to make the dish lighter.
- 3Don't skip resting the baked ziti. It allows the layers to set, preventing it from falling apart when you serve it.
- 4This dish is perfect for meal prep. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months before baking.
- 5To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator if frozen, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Replace the ground beef with 16 oz of chopped mushrooms and a can of brown or green lentils, drained. Sauté the mushrooms until they release their water and start to brown before adding the other vegetables.
gluten freeGluten free
Use your favorite brand of gluten-free ziti or penne pasta. Cook according to package directions, being careful not to overcook it.
high proteinHigh protein
Increase the lean ground beef to 1.5 lbs or stir in a cup of cooked lentils along with the meat to boost the protein and fiber content.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red pepper flakes and ensure the vegetables are very finely diced so they blend seamlessly into the sauce.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Good Source of Fiber
The addition of carrots and zucchini increases the dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Contains Lycopene
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases.
Reduced Saturated Fat
By using lean meat and part-skim cheeses, this recipe lowers the saturated fat content, making it a more heart-conscious choice compared to traditional versions.
Frequently asked questions
This version of Baked Ziti is designed to be healthier than the traditional recipe. It uses lean ground beef, part-skim cheeses to lower saturated fat, and includes extra vegetables for fiber and nutrients. With reduced sodium, it can be part of a balanced diet.