Cheesy Baked Ziti
- Duration
- Cook Time
- Prep Time
- 8 ServingsServings
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ziti, Rigatoni, Mostaccioli or other medium pasta shape, uncooked
- Vegetable oil cooking spray
- 1 onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 14 .5-oz. can low-sodium diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 15- oz. container low-fat ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup skim milk
- 1/3 cup chopped Italian parsley
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tbsp. dried)
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. salt
Preparation
Preparation
1 Prepare pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside in large bowl.
2 Preheat the oven to 400° F.
3 Spray a non-stick skillet with vegetable oil cooking spray. Heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
4 Add garlic and sauté 1 more minute. Remove from heat. Stir in tomatoes.
5 Place ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 cups of the mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp. of the Parmesan cheese and milk in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth.
6 Add the tomato and cheese mixtures, parsley, basil and pepper to the cooked pasta. Toss well to combine.
7 Spray a 2 1/2 to 3 quart (an 8 or 9 x 12-inch oblong dish works well) baking dish with vegetable spray.
8 Spoon the pasta mixture into the dish.
9 Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella and 2 tbsp. Parmesan cheeses.
10 Bake at 400° F for 20 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Source: National Pasta Association
