Meatless Baked Ziti
A comforting dish featuring ziti pasta baked with marinara, ricotta, and mozzarella, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures without any meat.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb ziti pasta Short, tube-shaped noodles that hold creamy sauces and cheeses.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Rich and flavorful sauce that bathes each ingredient.
Cheeses
- 1.5 cups ricotta cheese Smooth and creamy to elevate texture.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Gooey cheese for an iconic melting finish.
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese Nutty and sharp to round out the dish.
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried basil Enhances dish with herbal notes.
- 1 tsp dried oregano Adds warmth to marinara.
- 1 clove garlic, minced Provides a savory kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings for flavor enhancement.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook ziti pasta until al dente, then drain.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, oregano, and minced garlic. Stir until well blended.
Assembly and Baking
- Fold cooked ziti into marinara sauce until well coated.
- Transfer ziti to a greased baking dish and dollop ricotta mixture on top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For best results, let the baked ziti rest after baking. You can also make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for future meals.