PREP TIME: 20 MINS | COOK TIME: 30 MINS | TOTAL TIME: 50 MINS | YIELD: 8
This is perfect for an easy vegetarian dinner. Five ingredients baked ziti that is loaded with vegetables and protein! Simply divine!
INGREDIENTS
12 ounces gluten-free pasta of choice
½ pound bulk mild Italian sausage + 1/2 pound ground beef (may use 1 pound ground meat of choice)
1 teaspoon garlic powder, optional
1 24-25 ounces jar sugar-free marinara sauce
1 1/2 c mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Fresh basil, optional
HOW TO MAKE 5-INGREDIENT BAKED ZITI
Step 1: Prepare the oven. Preheat it to 350°F and grease two 9 x 9-inch or 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Set aside.
Step 2: Into a skillet or saute pan, cook the sausage over medium-high heat. Break the meat apart with a spatula to quickly and evenly cook it until no longer pink.
Step 3: When done, use a slotted spoon and spatula to transfer the cooked meat to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
Step 4: Bring to a rolling boil a large pot with water. Add and cook the pasta for about 10 to 11 minutes or until al dente. Make sure to not overdo the pasta or it’ll be mushy.
Step 5: Drain the pasta in cold running water and place it into the prepared pan.
Step 6: Add the meat into the pan followed by the Italian seasoning, marinara sauce, and 3/4 cup cheese. Gently stir to coat the noodles and sprinkle over the rest of the 3/4 cup of cheese.
Step 7: Use foil to cover the pan and place inside the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Step 8: In the last 10 minutes of baking, uncover and let the cheese melt.
Step 9: If desired, sprinkle with fresh basil.
Notes:
1. If planning to freeze, tightly cover the pan using foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
2. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight. With the cover still on, bake for about 35 to 45 minutes at 400 degrees F.
3. Or bake when frozen for about 60 to 70 minutes at 400 degrees F or until heated through.
NUTRITION FACTS:
SERVING SIZE: ⅛ RECIPE CALORIES: 362 SUGAR: 5G SODIUM: 520MG FAT: 13G CARBOHYDRATES: 41G FIBER: 3G PROTEIN: 21G
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