Baked Ziti is a comforting and versatile pasta dish that traditionally incorporates layers of ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese. While often made with ground meat, this recipe focuses on creating a flavorful meatless version that delivers all the satisfaction without the need for meat. Perfect for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter, hearty meal, this baked ziti recipe is easy to prepare, rich in cheesy goodness, and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To create this delightful meatless baked ziti, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ziti pasta: 1 pound of dry ziti pasta.
- Cheese mix: Ricotta cheese (about 15 oz), shredded mozzarella (8 oz), and finely grated Parmesan (1 cup).
- Egg: One egg to help bind the cheese mixture.
- Sauce: Store-bought marinara or homemade tomato sauce (about 25 oz).
- Herbs and spices: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Instructions for Preparing Meatless Baked Ziti
- Cook the pasta: Begin by boiling the ziti until it’s just shy of al dente. Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, you want to ensure it’s firm to avoid mushiness.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and one whisked egg. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until the ingredients are well combined.
- Layer the ziti and sauce: Spread half of the cooked ziti in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour half of the marinara sauce over the pasta, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Second layer: Repeat the layering process with the remaining ziti, sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (lightly sprayed with cooking spray to prevent the cheese from sticking) and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to brown the cheese. For a crispy, golden top, you can broil the dish for 2–5 minutes, watching it carefully.
- Rest and serve: Let the baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Baked Ziti
- Undercook the pasta: To avoid soggy pasta, cook it slightly less than the recommended time on the package, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use high-quality cheeses: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella from blocks melt better and provide a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties. Opting for whole milk ricotta also adds creaminess.
- Customizations: You can add roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the ricotta layer for added texture and nutrients. Alternatively, if you prefer more spice, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce can give the dish a mild kick.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through.
- Freezing: To freeze, assemble the baked ziti but do not bake it. Instead, cover the dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the fridge overnight and bake according to the original instructions, adding extra sauce if necessary.
- Make-ahead option: You can also prepare the dish a day ahead, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve. Just allow the dish to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- A crusty bread like garlic bread or whole wheat rolls.
- A side of roasted vegetables such as brussels sprouts, eggplant, or carrots.
- For added protein, you could serve it with grilled chicken, though this might stray from the meatless theme.
Conclusion
Meatless Baked Ziti is an excellent choice for a comforting yet easy weeknight meal that is hearty enough to satisfy without meat. With its layers of ziti, ricotta, and marinara, it delivers a rich, cheesy flavor in every bite. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to suit various preferences, making it a go-to dish whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or simply seeking a lighter version of a beloved classic.
