Go Back
–+ servings
Keto Cauliflower Ziti

Keto Cauliflower Ziti: The Best Low-Carb Comfort Food Ever

Keto Cauliflower Ziti is a delicious low-carb dish that swaps traditional pasta for cauliflower, offering comforting flavors without the guilt.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: All Recipes
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 1 head Cauliflower Low-carb alternative to pasta; use fresh florets for the best texture.
  • 1 lb Lean ground beef Provides protein and richness; can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil Essential for sautéing onions and garlic; avocado oil is a great alternative for a different flavor.
  • 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can work as a nice substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is always recommended over powdered.
For the Sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Adds a hint of heat; omit for a milder flavor if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Concentrates the tomato flavor in the sauce; marinara can be used for a sweeter touch.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Provides a wonderful herbal aroma; dried basil can substitute nicely.
  • 28 oz Crushed tomatoes Serves as the base of the sauce; fresh tomatoes can be an option if prepared properly.
For the Cheese Layers
  • 15 oz Ricotta cheese Adds creaminess and texture; cottage cheese can be a lower-calorie substitute.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded Essential for melting and topping; try part-skim for fewer calories or dairy-free versions.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded Brings a salty richness to the dish; Grana Padano is a suitable less-salty alternative.
Seasoning
  • to taste Salt Enhance the overall flavor; adjust to your personal taste preferences.
  • to taste Pepper Enhance the overall flavor; adjust to your personal taste preferences.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Casserole dish
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Basic Steps
  1. Blanch fresh cauliflower florets in boiling water for about 3 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside, ensuring they’re not watery to avoid a soggy casserole.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened—about 4-5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Crumble in the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown it until fully cooked, around 6-8 minutes.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and oregano, cooking for an extra 2 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing those delicious flavors to meld together.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cauliflower with the meat sauce. In a 9x13 casserole dish, layer half the cauliflower mixture, then top with half of the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat the layers to use all ingredients.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the assembled ziti for about 25 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden. Let it cool slightly before serving hot!

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color. Properly manage moisture to avoid sogginess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!