baked ziti vegetarian kichn recipe Baked Ziti Vegetarian Kitchen Recipe Made Easy

Baked ziti is a classic comfort food beloved by many, and this vegetarian version takes that cozy dish to a whole new level. Imagine tender pasta tubes enveloped in rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, all baked to bubbling perfection.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a hearty, satisfying meal that’s meat-free but full of flavor. This recipe is easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and is a great way to sneak some extra nutrients onto the table without sacrificing taste.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this baked ziti is sure to become a favorite.

In this detailed recipe, I’ll walk you through every step, from prepping your ingredients to baking the perfect casserole. Plus, I’ll share tips to make it even better and variations to suit your taste buds.

Ready to dive into a delicious, cheesy, and wholesome baked ziti? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian baked ziti ticks all the boxes: it’s cheesy, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Using fresh vegetables like spinach and bell peppers adds vibrant color and nutrition, while the combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a luscious, creamy texture.

It’s also incredibly versatile — you can swap in your favorite vegetables or even add some plant-based sausage for extra protein.

What’s more, it’s a one-dish meal that can feed a crowd or provide delicious leftovers for days. The baked top gets golden and crispy, contrasting beautifully with the tender pasta inside.

Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 (28-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for sautéing vegetables
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5-6 minutes. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine with the vegetables. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetable marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir gently to mix everything evenly.
7. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the pasta layer.
8. Top with the remaining pasta mixture and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
9. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra layer of flavor, try roasting the vegetables before mixing them into the sauce. You can also swap out zucchini for mushrooms or add eggplant for a heartier dish.”

• Make it vegan: Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella substitutes, and make sure your marinara sauce is vegan-friendly.
• Add protein: Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled vegetarian sausage for an added protein boost.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for some heat.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano and basil can elevate the flavor even more than dried herbs.
• Double the cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, add extra mozzarella or a sprinkle of provolone on top for a gooier finish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm crusty loaf adds a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy pasta.

For a refreshing drink, try a sparkling water with lemon or a light Italian soda.

If you’re looking to extend the meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh vegetable side like roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. For dessert, you might enjoy something sweet and comforting like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or a lighter treat such as the Green Goodness Juice Recipe.

Conclusion

This vegetarian baked ziti recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Italian-American favorite without meat. The blend of fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and creamy cheeses makes for a dish that’s both comforting and nourishing.

It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious casserole that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or cheeses to make it your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also want to try other comforting baked dishes like the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe or treat yourself to a sweet finish with the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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