Description
A comforting and hearty Meatless Baked Ziti featuring tender pasta coated in a creamy ricotta-infused marinara sauce, layered with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, then baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal that’s easy to prepare and serves a crowd.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces dried pasta (ziti or penne)
Sauce & Cheese
- 32 ounces marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the ziti later.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes depending on pasta shape. Drain well once cooked.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: While the pasta cooks, warm the marinara sauce over medium heat in a saucepan or skillet. When it begins to simmer, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups ricotta cheese until fully combined. Set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the ricotta-marinara mixture and toss well to coat every piece thoroughly with the creamy sauce.
- Layer in Baking Dish: Spread half of the pasta mixture into a large baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the layer.
- Add Second Layer: Top with the remaining pasta mixture followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, spreading evenly.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
Notes
- Use any tubular pasta like penne or ziti for best results.
- For a richer flavor, try adding Italian herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce.
- Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
