It’s a divide and conquer kind of night in our house, so I pulled this simple baked ziti (only 5 ingredients!) together in no time to feed my kiddos before we head our separate ways. Pasta is actually kind of like a treat for them, and I certainly can’t turn down a meal like this that
A. They love...and
B. Will also provide another meal (or lunch in a thermos!) Added bonus- this dish has veggies already built in, and they don’t even know!
INGREDIENTS
- 12 oz. whole wheat or gluten free pasta
- 1 lb. chicken sausage (can sub ground beef or turkey)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 28-oz jar marinara sauce (check labels for no added sugar!)
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
DIRECTIONS
Cook pasta according to directions; Drain and set aside.
While pasta cooks, brown 1 lb. chicken sausage in a splash of olive oil in a large skillet, breaking up with a wooden spoon or spatula until cooked through (about 10 minutes).
Add spinach and stir until wilted.
Add drained pasta and sauce, and a little salt and pepper to taste. Stir until combined.
Add ½ the mixture to a 9x13 pan coated with cooking spray or olive oil, and top with 1 cup mozzarella. Add remaining pasta mixture and cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes at 400 degrees.
Uncover and bake another 10 minutes or until the top is browned.