Are you craving baked ziti, but worried about the calorie count? Look no further than our lighter take on this classic comfort food - 1 meal Baked Ziti Lighter Take with only 950 calories. With a few simple ingredient swaps and a reduced portion size, you can indulge in the cheesy, saucy goodness of baked ziti without the guilt.

Not only does our recipe cut down on calories, it also provides a healthy dose of protein and fiber. Each serving contains lean ground turkey for protein, whole wheat pasta for fiber, and plenty of vegetables to add vitamins and minerals. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge!

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making a delicious, healthy baked ziti that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

1 lb lean ground turkey 1 onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking up any large pieces with a spoon. Add chopped vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, turkey mixture, and marinara sauce. Spread half of the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with half of the shredded cheese. Repeat layering with remaining pasta mixture and cheese.

Calorie Content

calories: 950 Fat: 31g Carbohydrates: 97g

Health Benefits

Lean ground turkey is a great source of protein, which helps build and repair muscles. It also contains essential amino acids that your body needs to function properly. Whole wheat pasta is higher in fiber than traditional white pasta, which can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. It also contains more nutrients, including B vitamins and iron. Vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect against disease.

Cheese Options

Cheddar cheese for a sharper flavor Gouda cheese for a smoky flavor Feta cheese for a tangy flavor

Vegetarian Option

Simply prepare the protein according to the recipe, and proceed with making the ziti as written. You can also add additional vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to bulk up the dish and add even more nutrition.

Gluten-free Option

You can also use a gluten-free flour blend to make a roux for the sauce instead of using flour. Be sure to check all of your ingredients for potential gluten contamination, and use separate cooking utensils and equipment to avoid cross-contamination.

Baking Tips

Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. Look for one made with all natural ingredients and no added sugars. Be sure to cook your pasta al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. This will ensure that it doesn't become mushy when baked. Cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to prevent the cheese from burning. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread or breadsticks A simple green salad with a homemade vinaigrette A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, for added flavor

Meal Prepping

Divide the baked ziti into individual portions and store in airtight containers in the fridge or freezer. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.