Ingredients

12 ounces uncooked ziti pasta
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 medium garlic cloves , minced
1/3 lb raw lean ground beef
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese , shredded
Baked Beef Ziti is an Italian-American classic dish that has been loved for generations. It's a hearty and comforting pasta bake that's perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. This healthier version of the dish uses lean beef and whole wheat pasta, making it a more balanced and nutritious meal. The dish is flavored with fragrant herbs like dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser that's easy to make and will become a family favorite.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 375°F.
2.Cook pasta according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain the pasta.
3.Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and garlic, cook until fragrant.
4.Add beef, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Saute until browned.
5.Stir in tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
6.Add cooked pasta and toss everything together.
7.Transfer everything to a baking dish, top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20 minutes.

PROS

This baked beef ziti recipe is a healthier version of the classic comfort food, without sacrificing deliciousness!
It’s easy to make and perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

It’s high in protein and thanks to the whole wheat pasta and crushed tomatoes, it’s also high in fiber and low in fat.

CONS

This dish might not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans, and due to the use of beef it has a higher carbon footprint than plant-based meals.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy carbohydrates.
The whole wheat pasta and crushed tomatoes provide a good amount of fiber and nutrients like vitamins C and A.
The use of lean beef also provides a good amount of iron and zinc, important nutrients for muscle and heart health.

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