Cheesy Baked Ziti
Courtesy of National Pasta Association
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 Min. Cook Time: 35 Min. What you need:
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+ 1 lb. ziti, rigatoni, mostaccioli or other medium pasta shape, uncooked
+ vegetable oil cooking spray + 1 onion, chopped (about 1 c.) + 2 garlic cloves, minced + 1 (14.5 oz.) can low-sodium diced tomatoes, drained + 1 (15 oz.) container low-fat ricotta cheese + 2 c. low-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded + 1/4 c. grated parmesan cheese + 1/2 c. skim milk + 1/3 c. chopped Italian parsley + 1/3 c. chopped fresh basil (or 1 Tbsp. dried) + 1/2 tsp. black pepper + 1/4 tsp. salt What to do:
1. Prepare pasta according to pkg. directions. Drain and set aside in large bowl.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a non-stick skillet with vegetable oil cooking spray. Heat oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until tender, about 5 min. Add garlic and sauté 1 more min. Remove from heat. Stir in tomatoes. 3. Place ricotta cheese, 1 1/2 c. of the mozzarella cheese, 2 Tbsp. of Parmesan cheese and milk in a food processor or blender. Process until smooth. 4. Add the tomato and cheese mixtures, parsley, basil and pepper to the cooked pasta. Toss well to combine. 5. Spray a 2 1/2 to 3 quart (an 8 or 9 x 12 in. oblong dish works well) baking dish with vegetable spray. Spoon the pasta mixture into the dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 c. mozzarella and 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheeses. 6. Bake at 400° F for 20 min., or until lightly browned. |