Excessive Protein Baked Ziti – Conserving On Level

Who says consolation meals can’t be a part of a excessive protein, wholesome way of life?

This recipe retains the basic Italian flavors you’re keen on whereas sneaking in nutritious upgrades.

The Substances

Ziti: A conventional tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce superbly.

Whereas not low in carbs, it’s a precious vitality supply—particularly when paired with protein and fiber to assist hold blood sugar regular.

You may as well go for entire wheat ziti to extend fiber and protein.

Lean Floor Beef: That is the star protein within the dish. Selecting lean floor beef means you get high-quality protein and important vitamins like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12 with out extra saturated fats.

Fats-free Cottage Cheese: Cottage cheese is an underrated protein powerhouse. Simply ½ cup can pack over 13 grams of protein.

By utilizing fat-free, you cut back energy and saturated fats whereas nonetheless having fun with a creamy, tacky texture within the dish.

Crushed Tomatoes: Tomatoes are wealthy in lycopene, a robust antioxidant linked to coronary heart well being and diminished irritation.

Crushed tomatoes carry a tangy, savory depth to the sauce with out added sugar or fats.

Shredded Half-Skim Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella supplies that gooey, melty goodness all of us crave—however utilizing part-skim helps cut back total fats whereas nonetheless delivering calcium and protein. An ideal topping that retains your dish on the lighter aspect.

Onion and Garlic: These fragrant veggies don’t simply add taste—additionally they include compounds with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

Garlic particularly has been linked to coronary heart well being and diminished blood strain.

Italian Seasoning and Oregano: These herbs add an genuine Italian taste profile with none energy.

Click on right here to trace the factors in your Weight Watchers app.

Methods to Make Excessive Protein Baked Ziti

Start by cooking the pasta till al dente, drain, and put aside. Be sure to don’t overcook the noodles as a result of they can even be baked.

Spray a nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Saute the onion and garlic 2-3 minutes.

Add the bottom beef and prepare dinner till browned. Drain any extra fats.

Stir within the crushed tomatoes, oregano, Italian Seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.

Combine collectively the pasta, beef-tomato combination, and cottage cheese.

Pour right into a 3-quart casserole dish and prime with the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake 20-25 minutes or till the cheese is melted. Let it relaxation for five minutes earlier than serving.

Serving Options

For an additional pop of taste, garnish the dish with recent basil or parsley.

To maintain the meal low in factors, serve it with a easy inexperienced salad. Combined greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a low level dressing.

Roasted greens are one other nice choice. Brozzoli, Zucchini, and Asparagus are all nice choices.

Listed below are some extra Weight Watchers pleasant recipes:

Creamy One Skillet Lemon Pasta

Bacon Spinach Pasta

Summer season Veggie Pasta with Lemon Herb Sauce

Tacky Beef Ranch Pasta

For those who’re on the lookout for some zero level recipes, take a look at my submit 20 Zero Level Recipes or my submit 20 (Extra) Zero Level Recipes. Each are crammed with scrumptious recipes that received’t value you a single level! They’re good for days while you’re operating low on factors, or making an attempt to save lots of up factors for an evening out. 

For those who’re on the lookout for dessert recipes you’ll be able to go to 50 Weight Watchers Desserts. It’s crammed with scrumptious desserts good for Weight Watchers!

Are you on the lookout for a meal plan that’s Weight Watchers pleasant? I’ve over 300 meal plans you can select from and I submit a brand new one every week. Click on right here to examine them out!