Healthy Baked Ziti Recipe - The Ultimate Family Classic
Nothing beats a classic baked pasta dish that reminds you of a comforting Sunday family dinner. The secret to a homemade baked pasta recipe that prioritizes health is swapping out heavy, calorie-dense fats for lighter, nutrient-dense alternatives. By layering your favorite Sturdy Sauce with fresh herbs and a controlled amount of high-quality cheeses, you get that indulgent, bubbly-baked texture without the guilt. This method coaxes out the rich, sweet flavors of the tomato base while keeping the overall meal light and digestible. It is the perfect way to enjoy a traditional baked ziti while staying completely aligned with your wellness goals.
Ingredients
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1 jar Sturdy Sauce (Tomato-based)
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250g Ziti or penne pasta (whole wheat or chickpea)
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1 cup Part-skim ricotta cheese
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1/2 cup Shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella
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1/4 cup Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the ziti for 2 minutes less than the package directions so it stays firm during baking.
- In a large bowl, mix the Sturdy Sauce, ricotta cheese, and chopped basil until thoroughly combined.
- Toss the undercooked pasta into the sauce mixture, then transfer everything into a lightly greased baking dish.
- Top with the shredded mozzarella and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling at the edges.