Looking for a comforting meal that everyone will love? This baked ziti recipe is perfect. It has tender ziti pasta, tasty marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a vegetarian pasta bake that pleases all.
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This easy recipe is quick to make. Prep takes about ten minutes, and cooking is thirty minutes. In just forty minutes, you can serve a warm, hearty dish. It’s great for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy dinners. It serves nine people, perfect for sharing.
Each serving has 299 calories, 18 grams of protein, and lots of calcium. This meal is not only delicious but also supports a vegetarian lifestyle. It’s a flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients for Baked Ziti Recipe No Meat
To make a tasty baked ziti with ricotta, you need to gather some ingredients. This vegetarian baked ziti recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. You can choose the classic version or add your own twist.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 pound of ziti pasta
- 24 ounces of ricotta cheese
- 1 pound of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large beaten egg
- 32-ounce jar of spaghetti sauce
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Ingredients for Variation
To make your meatless pasta casserole even better, try adding:
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor
- Spinach or other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for more nutrition
- Homemade marinara sauce for a richer taste
Choosing the right ingredients is key to making this comforting dish. Whether you stick to the basics or try new flavors, you’ll enjoy it.
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 299 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Cholesterol | 68 mg |
| Sodium | 782 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Calcium | 311 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Preparation Steps for Easy Baked Ziti
Starting an easy baked ziti recipe is simple. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Ziti Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the ziti pasta for 8 to 10 minutes, until it’s al dente. This ensures the pasta is just right for your dish.
After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps the pasta’s shape.
Mixing the Cheese Filling
While the pasta cools, make the cheese filling. In a medium bowl, mix 16 ounces of ricotta cheese, a beaten egg, 1.5 cups of spaghetti sauce, and a bit of salt and pepper. Stir until it’s smooth.
This cheese mixture adds a creamy layer to your baked ziti. It blends well with the pasta and sauce.
Layering Your Baked Ziti
Layering is key to a tasty baked ziti. It makes sure every bite is full of flavor. This method is simple but makes your dish stand out as a comfort food.
Creating Flavorful Layers
Start by greasing your baking dish. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom. This adds moisture and flavor from the start.
Next, add half of your cooked ziti over the sauce. Make sure it covers evenly. Then, add half of the ricotta mixture, spreading it to seal in the flavors.
Follow with another layer of sauce, then the rest of the ziti. Finish by spooning the remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmigiano cheese on top for a delicious crust.
After layering, your dish is ready for the oven. The flavors will blend, making a dish that’s inviting and delicious.
How Long Do You Bake Baked Ziti?
After you’ve layered your ingredients, it’s time to bake. Start by covering your dish with aluminum foil. Place it in a preheated oven at 425°F. Bake for about 30 minutes.
Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. This step helps the cheese get lightly browned on top. It makes the dish look and taste great.
After baking, let the baked ziti rest for 15 minutes. This step helps the layers set. It makes the dish easier to cut and serve.
Your hard work will pay off with a dish that serves 12 people. It’s perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Tips for the Perfect Meatless Pasta Casserole
Making the healthiest baked ziti can take your easy baked ziti recipe to the next level. It’s important to pick the right cheese and add the right seasonings. These steps will help make your dish not only delicious but also full of good ingredients.
Choosing the Right Cheese
Choosing the right cheese is crucial for the healthiest baked ziti. Use whole-milk ricotta for its creamy texture and fresh shredded mozzarella for a gooey feel. Stay away from pre-shredded cheeses, as they might have additives that change the taste. Mixing different cheeses can add depth without overwhelming the dish, making every bite a joy.
Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings
Seasoning your marinara sauce and cheese mix can really boost your easy baked ziti recipe. Add Italian herbs, fresh basil, or red pepper flakes for extra flavor and warmth. Taste your sauce as you go to make sure it’s just right. A well-seasoned dish is key to a perfect vegetarian pasta bake.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whole-milk ricotta | 8 oz |
| Shredded mozzarella | 4 oz |
| Dried Italian herbs | 2 Tbsp |
| Red pepper flakes | 2 tsp |
| Fresh basil (optional) | To taste |
By picking quality ingredients and focusing on seasoning, your healthiest baked ziti will be a hit with everyone.
Healthy Baked Ziti Modifications
Turning your baked ziti into a healthier dish is rewarding. By making a few changes, you can enjoy a meal that’s good for you. This meatless pasta casserole can be made to fit your dietary needs and taste.
Substituting Ingredients for Healthier Options
Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to add more fiber. Switch to part-skim or low-fat cheese to cut calories but keep the flavor. Adding lentils boosts protein and texture.
Increasing the veggies like zucchini, kale, or mushrooms makes it even healthier. These changes make your dish more nutritious.
Smart Serving Suggestions
Pair your healthy baked ziti with a fresh garden salad or steamed broccoli. These sides add vitamins and minerals. Serving in moderate amounts keeps your meal guilt-free.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storing and reheating your baked ziti recipe no meat is easy. This lets you enjoy this vegetarian comfort food whenever you want. Just follow the right storage tips to keep it tasting great.
How to Freeze Baked Ziti
To freeze baked ziti, don’t bake it first. Wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.
Best Practices for Reheating
Reheating in a conventional oven is best. For a non-frozen pan, bake at 400°F for 35-45 minutes. Frozen dishes take 65-75 minutes at the same temperature. Make sure it reaches 165°F for safety.
For individual portions, cover with foil to keep moist. Reheat for 30-40 minutes, then remove foil for 10 minutes to get a golden top.
Conclusion
The baked ziti recipe without meat is a tasty and comforting dish. It’s great for any event or a cozy weeknight dinner. It’s perfect for vegetarians because it’s hearty and satisfying.
You can make this vegetarian pasta bake your own by adding your favorite ingredients. This way, everyone at the table will find something they love.
This dish is a hit whether it’s fresh from the oven or as leftovers. It’s easy to make and packed with cheese and flavor. Plus, it has about 350 kcal per serving, making it a healthy choice.
Make this baked ziti recipe a staple in your home. Try out different ingredients and enjoy the classic flavors. It’s perfect for any time you want to indulge in a delicious meal.