Vegetarian Baked Ziti
Description:
Vegetarian Baked Ziti is a hearty, comforting pasta dish layered with rich tomato sauce, perfectly cooked ziti pasta, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy cheese blend. This meatless version is just as satisfying and is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. It’s cheesy, saucy, and baked until bubbly and golden on top.
Ingredients:
For the Pasta & Veggies:
400g (14 oz) ziti or penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
700 ml (24 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
For the Cheese Mixture:
1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
1 cup shredded mozzarella chees
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg (optional, for binding)
For Topping:
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil ziti pasta in salted water until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the veggie filling:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes. Add zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
3. Make the sauce:
Add marinara sauce and tomato paste to the vegetables. Stir and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Add sugar (if needed) and fresh herbs.
4. Mix cheese filling:
In a bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg (if using). Mix until smooth.
5. Combine pasta and sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked ziti with the veggie tomato sauce until well coated.
6. Layer the ziti:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:
Spread a layer of pasta.
Add dollops of the cheese mixture.
Repeat layers, ending with pasta.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
7. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake at 190°C (375°F) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Rest and serve:
Let the baked ziti rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil.
Total Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx. 6 servings):
Nutrient Amount
Calories 430 kcal
Carbohydrates 45 g
Protein 18 g
Fat 20 g
Saturated Fat 9 g
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 7 g
Sodium 580 mg
Calcium 220 mg
Great source of vegetarian protein and fiber
Can reduce cheese and use whole-wheat pasta for a lighter version
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
Q: Can I freeze baked ziti?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
Q: What can I use instead of ricotta?
A: Cottage cheese or a thick béchamel sauce are great alternatives.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Definitely! Spinach, eggplant, kale, or broccoli work well in this dish.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: Not inhe
rently, but you can adjust chili flakes for heat.