Low Sodium Baked Ziti with Meatballs

Savor the comforting flavors of this Low Sodium Baked Ziti with Meatballs, a healthier twist on a classic Italian favorite! Perfectly al dente ziti is layered with tender homemade meatballs and a rich tomato sauce made with no-salt-added ingredients, ensuring a flavorful yet heart-smart dish. Aromatic herbs like oregano, basil, and a hint of crushed red pepper infuse the dish with Italian flair, while a cheesy topping of Parmigiano-Reggiano and mozzarella creates that gooey, golden finish. Ready in just over an hour and big on taste without the excess sodium, this family-friendly casserole is ideal for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent!

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Ziti pasta
• 1 pound Lean ground beef
• 0.5 cup Unsalted Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 unit Large egg
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon Dried basil
• 0.25 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil
• 28 ounces No salt added tomato sauce
• 14.5 ounces No salt added diced tomatoes
• 0.5 cup Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until thoroughly combined.

Step 4

Shape the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 5

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 6

In the same skillet, add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir together and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 7

In a large baking dish, combine cooked ziti pasta and the meatball-tomato sauce mixture. Mix gently to ensure the pasta is well coated.

Step 8

Sprinkle grated Parmigiano-Reggiano over the top, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 9

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 10

Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 11

Before serving, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious low sodium baked ziti with meatballs!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2369.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3611.7

Total Fat 121.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 53.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 642.6mg	0%
Sodium 3077.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 390.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 39.4g	0%
Total Sugars 66.7g
Protein 240.7g	0%

Vitamin D 41IU	0%
Calcium 2491.5mg	0%
Iron 35.7mg	0%
Potassium 3621.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.3%

Protein: 26.6%

Carbs: 43.1%