Baked Ziti Recipe: A Hearty Vegetarian Delight

This delicious baked ziti recipe is perfect for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike! It's packed with flavor and satisfyingly cheesy, proving that meatless meals can be incredibly rich and rewarding. Forget bland vegetarian dishes – this recipe is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress.

Why This Vegetarian Baked Ziti Recipe Works

This recipe skips the meat but doesn't skimp on flavor. We achieve depth through a combination of:

• Robust Marinara Sauce: A high-quality marinara is key. Look for one with a complex flavor profile, or consider making your own from scratch for the ultimate control over taste and ingredients.
• Aromatic Vegetables: Onions and garlic provide a wonderful base, building a savory foundation for the dish. Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrition.
• Three Cheeses: The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses creates a creamy, melty, and intensely flavorful topping that's impossible to resist.
• Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Al dente ziti ensures a satisfying bite in every mouthful. Don't overcook your pasta!

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 (28 ounce) jar marinara sauce (high-quality is recommended!)
• 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Baked Ziti Perfection

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce and Vegetables

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and parmesan cheese.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Baked Ziti

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
3. In a large bowl, gently combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and ricotta mixture. Be careful not to break the pasta.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the top evenly with the shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
2. Let the ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations for the Ultimate Baked Ziti Experience

• Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding sauteed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a touch of heat.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and basil will elevate the flavor significantly.
• Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal.
• Freezing Instructions: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

This vegetarian baked ziti recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #vegetarianbakedziti!