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High Protein Baked Ziti

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 850
A hearty and protein-packed baked ziti dish that's perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Loaded with lean meats, cheese, and flavorful seasonings, it's both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 16 oz ziti
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Meat

  • 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey or chicken
  • 1/2 lb Italian ground sausage (raw or cooked)

Vegetables & Seasonings

  • 1 yellow onion medium yellow onion, diced
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 5 cups marinara sauce (Rao's or tomato basil preferred)
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/3 cup basil, chopped
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt + black pepper to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella (divided)
  • 16 oz cottage cheese (full fat)
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (shredded or grated)

Cheese Seasonings

  • 1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • pinch black pepper

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook pasta until al dente, then drain.
  • Cook garlic and onion in oil for 2 minutes. Add ground meats, season, and cook until done.
  • Simmer sauce, water, basil, and seasonings for 10 minutes. Mix cottage cheese with half the mozzarella and parmesan.
  • Combine pasta with meat sauce. Layer half in a baking dish, add cheese mixture, then remaining pasta and cheese on top.
  • Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or additional cheese before baking.
Calories: 850kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: pasta