baked ziti recipe no meat
Try this delicious baked ziti recipe no meat for a hearty, meat-free meal. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz 340 g ziti or penne pasta – Cooked al dente for the perfect texture.
- 3 cups marinara sauce – Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – To lightly grease the baking dish and enhance flavor.
For the Cheese Layer
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Adds creaminess and richness to the dish.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Divided 1 cup for layering, ½ cup for topping.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a nutty salty kick.
- 2 cloves garlic minced – Brings a savory depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs to elevate the dish.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste for seasoning perfection.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – For a subtle spicy kick.
- Fresh basil or parsley chopped – As a garnish for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s nice and hot when it’s time to bake the ziti.
Cook the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and then the ziti or penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions, making sure the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Mix the Cheese
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir in a pinch of salt, pepper, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Ziti
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, start by adding a thin layer of the marinara sauce to the bottom.
- Next, layer half of the cooked pasta on top of the sauce, followed by half of the cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese, ensuring the top layer is generously covered with mozzarella cheese.
Bake the Ziti
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese on top to melt and become golden and bubbly.
Let it Rest
- Once out of the oven, let the ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 15g
- Vitamin A: 15% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 20% of daily value
- Calcium: 15% of daily value
- Iron: 10% of daily value
