Veg Baked Ziti Recipe Easy and Delicious Dinner Idea

Looking for a comforting, wholesome meal that’s packed with flavor and vibrant vegetables? This Veg Baked Ziti Recipe hits all the marks!

It’s a perfect blend of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, fresh veggies, and melty cheese baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

This recipe is not only hearty but also easily customizable to fit your dietary preferences or what’s fresh in your fridge. The combination of colorful vegetables and herbs creates a delightful medley that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters!

Ready to dive into this deliciously simple and crowd-pleasing baked pasta? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veg baked ziti is a fantastic weeknight dinner option because it’s:

• Easy to prepare: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
• Vegetable-packed: Loaded with zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms for a hearty, nutritious punch.
• Comfort food classic: Cheesy, saucy, and baked until bubbly and golden—who can resist?
• Customizable: Swap veggies, use vegan cheese, or add your favorite herbs to suit your taste.
• Perfect for leftovers: Reheat it for an equally delicious lunch or dinner the next day.

Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta (or penne)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Colander
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese from block)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms: Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes.
4. Season the veggies: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and remove from heat.
5. Combine with pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Mix thoroughly so every pasta piece is coated with sauce and veggies.
6. Assemble the baked ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the dish, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Layer the remaining pasta, then finish with the remaining cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
8. Garnish and serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier texture, try mixing in ½ cup of ricotta cheese or a vegan alternative before baking.”

• Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without dairy.
• Swap the veggies: Feel free to add eggplant, kale, or even roasted butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce for a subtle kick.
• Use homemade sauce: For extra flavor, prepare your own marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes and herbs. Check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to pair with this ziti.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, store covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This veg baked ziti pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian-inspired meal. For a lighter option, roasted or steamed green beans or a crisp cucumber salad would complement the rich flavors perfectly.

Looking to add more variety to your vegetarian dinner lineup? Don’t miss these tasty recipes: Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish, or try our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for convenient meal prep.

Conclusion

This Veg Baked Ziti is a delicious, wholesome dish that brings together the best of hearty pasta and fresh vegetables in a comforting baked meal. Its simplicity makes it perfect for busy weeknights, and its adaptability means you can tailor it to your taste and pantry.

The cheesy, saucy layers create a satisfying texture that’s loved by kids and adults alike.

Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

We hope it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation!

For more inspiration, explore our collection of Best Italian Vegetarian Recipes for Delicious Meatless dishes and elevate your plant-based cooking today.

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