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Baked ziti recipe (no meat)

Baked ziti is the epitome of comfort food, delivering the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pasta. This meatless baked ziti recipe is a satisfying and hearty dish that everyone will love, featuring creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce. It's just as flavorful as the traditional version and is ideal for those looking to cut back on meat consumption without sacrificing taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this cheesy delight is sure to please!
Course Dinner
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Author FastPrep Recipes

Ingredients

  • 12 Oz ziti pasta
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup Ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 tsp Dried basil
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish optional

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
  • Add marinara sauce, dried basil, and oregano to the skillet. Stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir in the marinara sauce mixture.
  • Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for a delicious, cheesy finish.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to ensure even cooking and a tender texture. Next, take off the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, you can add a little heavy cream to the marinara sauce.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the sauce.

Nutrition Information:

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 8g