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Cauliflower Baked Ziti Recipe

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This Cauliflower Baked Ziti is a low-carb, flavorful twist on traditional baked ziti, utilizing roasted cauliflower florets instead of pasta. Ground beef simmers in a spiced marinara sauce and is layered with creamy ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, and aromatic herbs, then baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for a comforting, gluten-free dinner that doesn’t skimp on cheesy, savory goodness.

Ingredients

Cauliflower

  • 2 small heads of cauliflower
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups sugar free marinara

Cheese Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons minced parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Topping

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cauliflower: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Chop the cauliflower heads into small florets and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and salt, then toss to coat evenly.
  2. Roast the Cauliflower: Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single even layer on one or two rimmed baking sheets to avoid overcrowding. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the cauliflower is tender and browned around the edges.
  3. Cook the Meat Sauce: While the cauliflower roasts, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sugar-free marinara sauce and reduce heat to low to warm through.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the roasted cauliflower evenly on the bottom. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the cauliflower.
  5. Mix the Cheese Layer: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded Parmesan, the egg, minced parsley, and garlic. Spoon dollops of this mixture over the meat sauce layer. Carefully spread to cover the sauce. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
  6. Add Second Layer: Add the remaining roasted cauliflower on top of the cheese layer, followed by the rest of the meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
  7. Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
  8. Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy hot.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed onions to the meat sauce.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
  • To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms or lentils instead.
  • Ensure the cauliflower is dry before roasting to get nice browning.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/cauliflower-baked-ziti-recipe/