Keto Dutch Oven Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked Ziti is a beloved comfort food known for its hearty, cheesy, and savory goodness. For those following a ketogenic diet, traditional baked ziti is off-limits due to the high carb content of pasta. However, this Keto Dutch Oven Baked Ziti recipe provides a delicious low-carb alternative that captures all the classic flavors without the carbs. By substituting regular pasta with keto-friendly ingredients, this dish becomes a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal while staying within their dietary goals. Follow these steps to create a satisfying Keto Baked Ziti in your Dutch oven.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 yellow squash, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the Dutch oven. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the diced zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4

Pour in the sugar-free marinara sauce and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 5

Remove the Dutch oven from heat. Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Place the Dutch oven in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Cooking Note

• For an extra creamy texture, you can add a few dollops of ricotta cheese on top before baking.
• Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef and sausage before adding the vegetables to avoid a greasy dish.

Serving Suggestions

Keto Dutch Oven Baked Ziti is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your meal:

• Serve with a side of garlic butter sautéed green beans or asparagus.
• Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Offer a slice of keto-friendly garlic bread made with almond flour.

Tips

• Use a high-quality, sugar-free marinara sauce to ensure the dish remains keto-friendly.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with more low-carb vegetables such as mushrooms and eggplant.
• For added flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving.

Prep Time

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time

• 35 minutes

Total Time

• 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 400
• Protein: 30 grams
• Sodium: 750 milligrams

Conclusion

This Keto Dutch Oven Baked Ziti is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food while adhering to a low-carb diet. The combination of savory meats, tender vegetables, rich sauce, and melty cheese creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this keto-friendly recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of baked ziti without compromising your dietary goals.

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