Ingredients

2 packages tofu shirataki noodles , fettuccine shaped
1/2 lb ground buffalo meat
1 small onion , chopped
1 small green pepper , chopped
2 garlic cloves , minced
1/4 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 jar pasta sauce
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon italian seasoning ( optional )
1/2 cup 2 % mozzarella cheese , shredded & divided
1/2 cup fat-free cheddar cheese , shredded & divided
1/4 cup fresh parmesan cheese , grated
Baked ziti is an Italian-American classic that typically uses traditional pasta such as penne or ziti. In this recipe, we're giving the classic a healthy twist by using Tofu Shirataki noodles instead of traditional pasta and buffalo meat as our protein of choice. This dish is perfect for those who are looking to watch their carb intake or just incorporate more healthy alternatives in their diet. The use of buffalo meat also makes this a nice change from the usual ground beef or pork that's usually used in this dish, without compromising on taste or texture. Enjoy this baked ziti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.Drain and rinse the 2 packages of tofu shirataki noodles well, patting dry with paper towels.
3.In a large skillet, cook the ground buffalo meat over medium-high heat until browned.
4.Add chopped onion, green pepper, minced garlic and black pepper to the skillet and continue cooking until vegetables are tender.
5.Add pasta sauce, crushed red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning (optional) to the skillet, mix well and remove from heat.
6.Stir in 1/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of the shredded fat-free cheddar cheese into the skillet, mix until the cheese is melted.
7.In a greased 8-inch square baking dish, pour half of the meat sauce over the bottom.
8.Top with the rinsed shirataki noodles.
9.Pour the remaining meat sauce over the noodles.
10.Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded fat-free cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese all over the top.
11.Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
12.Remove the aluminum foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
13.Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

PROS

This recipe is a healthier version of a classic baked ziti since it uses Tofu Shirataki noodles which are low in calories and carbs.

Tofu shirataki noodles have no cholesterol or sugar and are high in fiber.

The buffalo meat is high in protein and low in saturated fat, making this dish a good option for those looking to watch their diet.

CONS

Tofu Shirataki noodles might have a rubbery texture and take some getting used to if you’re used to traditional pasta.

The meat sauce can get quite spicy due to the crushed red pepper flakes and might not be suitable for those who don’t like spicy food.

This dish is also not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to the use of buffalo meat.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This recipe is full of health benefits. Tofu Shirataki noodles are low in calories, high in fiber and have no sugar, making them a great option for those looking to manage their weight or blood sugar levels. They also contain glucomannan, a type of soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol and improve gut health.
Buffalo meat is low in saturated fat and high in protein, making it a good option for maintaining muscle mass and aiding in weight loss.
The garlic used in this recipe has been linked to boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

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