Low-Fat Baked Ziti
Low‑fat baked ziti packed with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, studded with egg whites for protein—perfect for a light, comforting family dinner that satisfies cheese lovers while staying healthy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine 1 lb. nonfat ricotta cheese, 2 cups nonfat shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated parmesan, 3 egg whites, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Cook ziti al dente according to package instructions and drain.
- Combine the cooked ziti with the cheese mixture and 3/4 cup of sauce, mixing thoroughly.
- Place the mixture in an 11 x 7‑inch baking dish sprayed with low‑fat Mazola spray.
- Top with the remaining sauce and sprinkle with the remaining parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of low-fat milk to the ricotta mixture. If you want to boost flavor, mix in some chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano. You can substitute whole wheat ziti for a healthier option. If you're looking to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium cheese and sauce. This dish also works well with variations like adding spinach or sautéed mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked ziti with a side salad and crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal. A light Italian vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the ziti. For a refreshing touch, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving. This dish also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Eggplant Parmesan or Quick N' Easy Spinach Lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ziti in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low-Fat Baked Ziti contains roughly 145 calories, with 20g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value) and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% 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 use regular ricotta cheese instead of nonfat?
Yes, you can use regular ricotta if you prefer a richer flavor and creamier texture. Just keep in mind that it will increase the fat content of the dish. Adjust your other ingredients accordingly to maintain balance.
What can I substitute for the egg whites?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth. These alternatives will help bind the ingredients while keeping the dish moist.
Can I freeze this baked ziti?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the ziti but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).