Easy Meatless Baked Ziti

This meatless baked ziti is pure comfort and delivers a bubbling, cheesy casserole packed with flavor though it is surprisingly easy to assemble. Whether I am feeding a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this dish never fails to make everyone happy at the table.

I first put this together for a Friday night when we had friends drop by unannounced. The result was so delicious I have made it over and over on busy nights when we just need something warm and filling.

Ingredients

• Ziti pasta: the shape is perfect for soaking up sauce and holding cheese in every bite look for brands labeled bronze cut for the most flavor grab regular or whole wheat
• Jarred pasta sauce: makes prep fast but choose one you enjoy eating by the spoon or try a roasted garlic style for extra depth
• Whole milk ricotta cheese: brings creamy softness look for fresh ricotta with a short ingredient list for richest taste
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully always buy a block and grate your own if you can for top stretch factor
• Egg: acts as a binder to make the filling creamy and sliceable choose large free range eggs for best results
• Garlic cloves: deliver fresh zip aim for plump and firm bulbs mince just before using
• Italian seasoning: adds herby notes try your favorite blend or make your own with oregano basil and thyme
• Black pepper: freshly ground brightens everything use a coarse grind for little pops of flavor
• Pecorino romano cheese: grated sharp and salty with a tang use authentic romano for the boldest kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Ziti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil then cook the ziti just until al dente drain well and set aside pasta that is slightly firm holds up best in the oven

Make the Cheese Mixture:

In a large bowl stir together one and a half cups of your pasta sauce ricotta cheese one cup of mozzarella cheese an egg minced garlic Italian seasoning and black pepper make sure everything is completely combined into a creamy mixture

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Spread half a cup of pasta sauce over the bottom of a thirteen by nine inch baking dish this prevents sticking and adds extra moisture

Combine Pasta and Cheese:

Add the cooked pasta to your baking dish then pour the ricotta cheese mixture over top stir gently to coat all the noodles evenly with the creamy mixture you want every bite covered

Layer and Finish:

Pour the rest of the pasta sauce over the pasta and smooth it evenly sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and a generous layer of pecorino romano cheese on top

Bake:

Cover the dish with foil bake in a preheated three hundred seventy five degree oven for twenty five minutes then remove the foil and continue to bake for another ten to fifteen minutes until bubbly and golden let the baked ziti rest out of the oven for ten minutes before serving this helps it set for tidy slices

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Every time I make this baked ziti the scent of the garlic and cheese filling the house takes me right back to relaxed family gatherings where everyone piled around the kitchen island greedily waiting for the first slice the pecorino romano is my favorite part it brings a salty finish I look forward to every time

Storage Tips

Leftover baked ziti keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days just let it cool completely before covering tightly with foil or a well fitting lid. For longer storage cut into portions and freeze wrapped tightly for up to three months. Reheat from chilled covered with foil until warmed through in a moderate oven or zap in the microwave for lunch on the fly.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the ziti for penne rigatoni or even rotini in a pinch as long as the noodles are short and sturdy. If you do not have pecorino romano parmesan works as a milder substitute. To make this recipe gluten free simply use your favorite gluten free pasta and double check your sauce ingredients.

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Serving Suggestions

This is a full meal on its own but it also shines with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. For something heartier serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables. My family likes a little extra freshly cracked pepper and an extra sprinkle of romano at the table.

Cultural and Historical Context

Baked ziti is a beloved Italian American comfort dish that has roots in Southern Italian pastas al forno. In Italian American households especially in the Northeast US it is a go to for gatherings potlucks and Sunday suppers. This meatless version leans on cheese and herbs reflecting the tradition of making do with what you have to create something festive and satisfying for all.

Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or other short pasta shapes work well if ziti is unavailable.

→ Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What cheeses can be substituted for pecorino romano?

Parmesan or grana padano can be used in place of pecorino romano for a similar salty flavor.

→ Can I add vegetables to the ziti?

Roasted vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be folded in for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How do I prevent overcooked pasta?

Boil the pasta until it's just al dente; it will finish cooking in the oven and maintain the right texture.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, cool completely after assembly, cover well, and freeze. Thaw and bake when ready to enjoy.