Sloppy Ziti

A sloppy joe meets ziti mashup: lean ground beef simmered with finely chopped vegetables in a chili-spiced tomato sauce, then tossed with tubular pasta instead of piled on a bun. The food processor chops the carrots, onion, and green pepper so fine they practically melt into the sauce.

This is a clever way to pack vegetables into a meal without anyone noticing. The food processor turns the veggies into tiny pieces that cook down and disappear into the meat sauce. Kids (and picky adults) eat a full serving of vegetables without realizing it.

The sauce is concentrated and punchy: tomato paste diluted with water instead of canned tomatoes, so the tomato flavor is intense and thick. Chili powder adds warmth without overwhelming heat. It clings to the ziti instead of pooling at the bottom of the bowl.

Kitchen Tips

• Drain the browned beef in a sieve to remove excess fat. Extra lean beef still renders some grease.
• Pulse the vegetables in the food processor. Don’t puree them into mush. You want finely chopped, not baby food.
• Simmer the sauce covered on the lowest heat while the pasta boils. This lets the flavors develop without reducing too much.
• Cook the ziti to al dente. It absorbs moisture from the sauce when you toss them together.

Variations

• Use ground turkey instead of beef for an even leaner version.
• Add a can of kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Top with shredded cheddar and serve in bowls for a sloppy joe pasta bake feel.