Cindy's Baked Ziti

prep time:: 20 min
total time:: 50 min

Makes 6 to 8 servings

The great thing about this recipe is that you can make a healthier version by using whole wheat pasta, non-fat cottage cheese, omitting the meat and using a low-calorie cheese. I’ve made it this way and it’s just as good. So either way, both versions are delicious! ENJOY!

ingredients

8 ounce ziti
1/2 pound extra lean ground turkey or beef (optional)
2 onions, chopped
1/2 tablespoon garlic, diced
3 cups spaghetti sauce
2 cups Ricotta cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2-1 cup mozzarella cheese

directions

Pre-heat oven to 350°F. Spray 2 quart baking dish (9x9" pan) with non-stick cooking spray. Cook ziti according to package directions and set aside. In a medium sauté pan on medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add meat and Italian seasoning and cook until cooked throughout. Add spaghetti sauce to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes; set aside. In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley & garlic powder. Mix thoroughly. Add ziti to cottage cheese mixture. Spread 1/3 of meat mixture on the bottom of the pan. Spoon ziti mixture into the pan and add remaining sauce to the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and add the cheese & cook another 4-5 minutes (with no foil), just long enough to melt the cheese.