Baked Beef Ziti(Lighter Eating - 6 Points)
A comforting baked beef ziti featuring tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook pasta according to package directions without added fat or salt; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat; add minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks, about 3-5 minutes; drain off any fat.
- Return the pan to heat and add dried oregano, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper; stir to coat the beef.
- Cook until herbs become fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Spoon a small amount of tomato mixture into the bottom of a 4-quart casserole dish to cover the surface.
- Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce.
- Top with half of the remaining sauce and half of the cheese.
- Add the remaining ziti, then cover with the remaining sauce and cheese.
- Bake until cheese is golden and bubbly, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, opt for whole wheat ziti or swap half of the beef for finely chopped mushrooms to enhance flavor while reducing calories. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients. If you prefer a creamier dish, consider mixing in a light ricotta or cottage cheese layer. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Baked Beef Ziti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a delightful meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or fresh basil on top can add flavor and presentation. This dish also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Pasta And Bean Soup(Pasta E Fagioli) for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning and bake at 350°F until warmed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Beef Ziti(Lighter Eating - 6 Points) contains roughly 242 calories, with 12g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (118% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), and calcium (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1353mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Baked Beef Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven, so it bakes evenly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, lean turkey or chicken is a great option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version while maintaining a similar texture and flavor profile.
Can I freeze Baked Beef Ziti?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).