There is something deeply comforting about a bubbly, cheesy Italian-style casserole, especially when it fills the kitchen with the smell of garlic and tomato sauce. This keto cauliflower ziti gives you all that cozy satisfaction without the heavy carbs, and it truly feels like a hug in a baking dish.
This keto cauliflower ziti is one of those recipes I make when I want a hearty dinner that still feels good afterward. It is meaty, cheesy, and rich, with tender cauliflower standing in beautifully for pasta. If you miss baked ziti on a low carb lifestyle, this one is going to make you very happy. Let's get started.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Classic baked ziti flavor without the carbs
- Keto-friendly, low carb, and family-approved
- Hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
- Great way to enjoy cauliflower in a comforting way
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Cauliflower is the star here, and parboiling it briefly keeps it tender without turning mushy. I have tested skipping that step, and the texture just is not the same. Ricotta adds that classic baked ziti creaminess, while mozzarella gives you those irresistible cheese pulls.
If you prefer, ground turkey can be swapped for the beef. You can also add a pinch of Italian seasoning if you like a more herb-forward sauce.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and cook for about 3 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
- Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste and oregano and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, reduce heat, and let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Pour the meat sauce over the cauliflower and gently stir to combine.
- Spread half of the cauliflower mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Top with half of the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Add the remaining cauliflower and finish with the rest of the cheeses.
- Bake for 25 minutes until hot, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Do not overcook the cauliflower. Three minutes is just right.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes so it sets before serving.
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Taste the sauce before assembling and adjust seasoning as needed.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Make Ahead and Freezing
This keto cauliflower ziti is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake until hot.
Tips and Variations
- Add sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Swap beef for Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
- Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta if preferred.
- Finish with fresh basil for a pop of freshness.
FAQs
Yes. Each serving is low in carbs and fits well into keto meal plans.
Not if you drain it well and avoid overcooking before baking.
You can try dairy-free cheeses, but the texture will be different.
📖 Recipe
Keto Cauliflower Ziti
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casseroles
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Enjoy all the flavors of a hearty Italian meal without the carbs! This Keto Cauliflower Ziti is a cheesy, meaty, low-carb casserole that's perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Comfort food, keto-style!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add cauliflower and cook for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste and oregano. Cook for 2 minutes, then add crushed tomatoes. Simmer on medium-low heat for 15 minutes.
- Mix the meat sauce with the cooked cauliflower.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cauliflower mixture, then top with half of the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use riced cauliflower as a shortcut for faster prep.
- Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 277
- Sugar: 3.4
- Sodium: 454.6
- Fat: 13.1
- Saturated Fat: 7.1
- Trans Fat: 0.1
- Carbohydrates: 8.8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 31.4
- Cholesterol: 74.2
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole on its own for a filling dinner or pair it with a simple green salad. I love adding a spoonful of extra ricotta on top for an extra cozy touch.
Nutrition and Notes
Each serving has about 277 calories with plenty of protein and flavor. I have made this casserole several times, and it is always one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day.
Reader Reviews or Testimonials
"So comforting and filling. I did not miss the pasta at all."
"This is now a regular in our keto dinner rotation."
Related Recipes and Internal Links
If you enjoy cozy casseroles like this, you may also love my
- Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin for another comforting baked dish.
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