Ingredients:

  • 4 medium zucchini (approximately 1.5 lbs / 680g), sliced into thin, ziti-like strips
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
  • 1 pound ground beef (454g) (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup / 150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (794g)
  • 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (170g)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (2g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (1g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) (0.5g)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (6g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (3g)
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese (full-fat, approximately 425g)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 25g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5g)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1.5g)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (approx. 225g)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (approx. 25g)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish) (approx. 10g)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Zucchini Noodles: Salt the zucchini noodles and let them sit in a colander to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Make the Meat Sauce: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet. Drain off excess fat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Assemble the Baked Ziti: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish. Layer half of the zucchini noodles over the sauce. Spread the cheese filling evenly over the noodles. Top with the remaining zucchini noodles. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  6. Rest & Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.