A craving for comfort food doesn’t have to derail your healthy eating goals—enter keto cauliflower baked ziti. Imagine the cheesy, saucy goodness of classic baked ziti, but with a twist: luscious cauliflower florets taking the place of pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day, yet light enough to keep you feeling fabulous.
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion softens, then add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s no longer pink, approximately 6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Place the skillet back on medium heat, add tomato paste and oregano, and cook for about 2 minutes until the paste darkens slightly. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, bring to a simmer, and reduce the heat. Allow the mixture to cook for 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens and the flavors meld. Remove from heat and mix in the fresh basil.
- In a large bowl, combine the roasted cauliflower florets with the prepared sauce, mixing until fully coated. Spread half of this cauliflower mixture into a large baking dish, creating an even layer. Add dollops of half the ricotta cheese and sprinkle with half the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Layer the remaining cauliflower mixture over the cheeses in the baking dish. Top with the rest of the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, ensuring an even coverage.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheeses are melted and golden brown. Once done, garnish with additional fresh basil before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 pound ground beef
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons thinly sliced fresh basil, plus additional for garnish
- 2 medium heads of cauliflower, cut into florets and roasted
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
FAQ
- Can I use fresh cauliflower instead of roasted cauliflower in this recipe?
- While the original recipe used blanched cauliflower, roasting it is recommended for better sauce consistency. Roasting at 375°F for about 40 to 45 minutes will give you a tender and slightly golden cauliflower that works perfectly with the dish.
- Is there a vegetarian option for this baked ziti?
- Yes, you can make this dish vegetarian by omitting the ground beef. You can replace it with plant-based ground meat or simply add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
- How should I store leftovers of the cauliflower baked ziti?
- Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can use a microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Can I freeze the cauliflower baked ziti?
- Yes, you can freeze the prepared dish. Ensure it is fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- What can I serve with cauliflower baked ziti to make a complete meal?
- To complement the dish, consider serving it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread. A light vinaigrette dressing on the salad can balance the richness of the baked ziti.
Tips
- Opt for Roasted Cauliflower: For a thicker, more traditional sauce consistency, ensure you use roasted cauliflower rather than blanched. Toss the cauliflower with oil and salt, then roast it until tender and slightly golden.
- Layer Cheese Strategically: When assembling your dish, layer the cheeses between the cauliflower and sauce. This ensures each bite has a gooey, cheesy texture and enhances the overall flavor.
- Simmer Sauce for Depth: Allow your tomato sauce to simmer and reduce for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps meld the flavors and thickens the sauce, providing a richer taste.
- Finish with Fresh Basil: Before serving, garnish your baked ziti with fresh basil. This adds a fragrant, fresh element that complements the hearty flavors of the dish.
Equipment
- Large baking sheets
- Deep-sided skillet
- Large baking dish
