Indulge in the comforting flavors of classic baked ziti with a health-conscious twist in this **Low Carb Baked Ziti** recipe! By swapping traditional pasta with tender zucchini slices and cauliflower florets, this dish is perfect for those following keto-friendly or low-carb diets. Layers of savory marinara-coated ground beef, creamy ricotta, and a generous topping of bubbling mozzarella and Parmesan create a hearty, cheesy casserole that doesnβt skimp on flavor. With just 20 minutes of prep and wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients, this guilt-free baked ziti is a satisfying weeknight dinner that delivers all the comfort of the original. Perfect for meal prep or serving up to a crowd!
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
Steam the cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with the egg and half of the Parmesan cheese.
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Layer with half of the zucchini slices, then top with half of the ricotta mixture.
Add all of the steamed cauliflower, spreading evenly.
Top with half of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat layers: remaining zucchini slices, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella cheese.
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Calories |
3324 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 226.7 g | 291% | |
| Saturated Fat | 100.9 g | 504% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 907 mg | 302% | |
| Sodium | 11564 mg | 503% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 128.9 g | 47% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.1 g | 72% | |
| Total Sugars | 70.4 g | ||
| Protein | 217.0 g | 434% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.2 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 3825 mg | 294% | |
| Iron | 15.2 mg | 84% | |
| Potassium | 4520 mg | 96% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.