There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake that brings everyone together around the table. This Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser that balances smooth ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara sauce to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe offers a satisfying, vegetarian-friendly twist on the classic baked ziti that’s both hearty and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each element plays a crucial role, from the al dente pasta that holds just the right bite, to the fragrant herbs that add a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- 12 oz ziti or rigatoni pasta: The tubular shape is perfect for capturing sauce and cheese in every bite.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: A rich, tangy tomato sauce providing the dish’s unmistakable heart.
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese: Adds creamy softness that balances the tang of the marinara.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a smooth, custardy texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy pull.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, salty finish to top the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the flavors and add a gorgeous green contrast.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): For a golden sauté if you choose to add garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional): Adds a fragrant depth when gently sautéed in olive oil.
How to Make Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While waiting, boil your pasta in salted water until it is just al dente—this ensures the pasta holds its texture through baking without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Optional Garlic Sauté
If you love that garlicky aroma, heat the olive oil in a small pan and sauté the minced garlic until it’s just fragrant, roughly one minute. This step infuses a lovely warmth without overpowering the dish.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten egg, grated Parmesan, and freshly chopped herbs. This mixture is creamy with hints of sharpness from the cheese and fresh earthiness from the herbs, tying the entire dish together beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Lightly spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor at the base. Then toss the cooked pasta with the remaining marinara so every piece is evenly coated with that rich tomato goodness.
Step 5: Create a Stack of Flavor
Place half of the sauced pasta into the baking dish, then spread half of the ricotta mixture over it. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers once more, finishing off with a generous topping of Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden
Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully golden on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes to firm up before serving.
How to Serve Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley over the top adds a lovely pop of color and fresh aroma, perfectly complementing the rich cheese and tomato flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve your baked ziti alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlicky roasted vegetables. These sides provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, cheesy pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family-style meal, serve the ziti straight from the baking dish with a big ladle, inviting everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, plate individual portions topped with extra cheese and herb sprigs for a charming, restaurant-inspired presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy reheat on busy days.
Freezing
This Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe freezes wonderfully! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, simply bake from frozen—adding extra time as needed.
Reheating
Reheat your baked ziti in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat until warmed through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes, or use a microwave for a quicker meal with slightly less crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti or rigatoni work best due to their tubular shape for holding sauce, penne or even large shells can be great substitutes with similar results.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, by substituting the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives and omitting the egg or using a vegan binder, you can enjoy a dairy-free version equally delicious.
How spicy is the Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe?
This recipe is naturally mild and comforting, but you can easily add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce if you like a little kick of heat.
Can I prepare this dish in advance and then bake it later?
Definitely! You can assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and bake when convenient—making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What cheese can I use if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a handy substitute in a pinch. For smoother results, blend it slightly before mixing with the egg and Parmesan.
Final Thoughts
This Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe has a special way of making your kitchen feel warm and inviting, with every bite reminding you of the simple joys of comfort food. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, it’s a dish worth making often. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and dive into this cozy, cheesy wonder tonight!
Print
Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Meatless Baked Ziti recipe is a comforting Italian-American classic made without meat. It features tender pasta baked in a rich marinara sauce layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. A perfect vegetarian main dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfying for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz ziti or rigatoni pasta
Sauce and Cheese Mixture
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the ziti.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain it well and set aside for layering.
- Sauté Garlic (Optional): In a small pan, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. This adds a subtle garlic flavor to the sauce.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, and chopped herbs until well mixed to create a creamy filling.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and infuse flavor.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the remaining marinara sauce until the pasta is well coated.
- Layer First Half: Add half of the sauced pasta to the baking dish, then spoon half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer to create a cheesy topping.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining sauced pasta, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture and then the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Top with Parmesan: Evenly sprinkle the top with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired for added color and flavor.
Notes
- To prevent pasta from sticking, stir occasionally while cooking and consider rinsing briefly under warm water after draining.
- If you prefer a meatier flavor, you can add sautéed mushrooms or vegetables as a substitute.
- Covering the dish during the initial bake traps moisture, ensuring the pasta is cooked through and creamy.
- Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for the best aroma and taste.
