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Easy Meatless Baked Ziti

Easy Meatless Baked Ziti is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. This delicious casserole features layers of tender ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, all topped with gooey mozzarella. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that brings family and friends together around the table. With its vibrant flavors and textures, every bite feels like a warm embrace.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan; season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, half of the cooked ziti, half of the ricotta mixture; repeat layers, finishing with marinara sauce.
  5. Top with remaining mozzarella and bake covered for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Nutrition

Keywords: - Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. - Substitute marinara for pesto or use different cheeses like goat cheese for variety. - For meal prep, assemble ahead of time and refrigerate before baking.