BAKED THREE-CHEESE BEEFY ZITI

Diabetics should not substitute regular pasta for the ones listed. It is important that diabetics avoid regular pastas.

1 pkg (12-oz) uncooked whole-grain (or your favorite low/no carb) ziti pasta

1 lb lean ground beef

1/2 cup sliced or button mushrooms, optional
3 cups sugar-free or low-sugar marinara or pasta sauce
1 pkg (8-oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
3 tbsp pesto sauce
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
Fresh grated Parmesan cheese

Cook pasta according to pkg directions; drain.

While pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a nonstick skillet and drain well.

In a large mixing bowl combine the cooked pasta with the browned beef and mushrooms, if using.  Add the 2 cups of the marinara sauce, half the mozzarella cheese, half the Parmesan cheese, the ricotta cheese, pesto sauce and red pepper.  Stir until well blended.

Spray a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.  Spoon the ziti-beef mixture into the baking dish.  Spoon the last cup of marinara sauce over the casserole.  Sprinkle with the remaining halves of the Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Bake the casserole at 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until the cheeses are melted and the casserole is bubbly.  Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

file photo for reference only