Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

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Baked Ziti Recipe Without Meat: A Cheesy, Comforting Vegetarian Dish

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that doesn’t require meat, this Baked Ziti recipe is perfect for you. It’s a vegetarian twist on the classic, combining ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese into a hearty casserole that’s satisfying for everyone at the table. Whether you’re avoiding meat for dietary reasons or simply want to try something different, this baked ziti is a winner.

I’ve been making baked ziti for years, and this meatless version has become a favorite in my household. It’s simple to prepare, and the leftovers taste just as good (if not better!) the next day. The rich, savory marinara sauce pairs beautifully with the cheesy layers, making it the ultimate comfort food. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this easy, delicious dish!

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Health Benefits of Baked Ziti Without Meat

While baked ziti is often thought of as a heavier, indulgent meal, you can still enjoy a satisfying, hearty dish without the meat. This vegetarian version is made with pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese, offering a comforting balance of carbs, protein, and calcium.

The tomato sauce provides a good dose of vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health. The cheeses—mozzarella and ricotta—are excellent sources of calcium and protein, which help with bone health and muscle function. If you’re looking to make it even lighter, you can substitute part of the cheese with a lower-fat option.

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Baked Ziti Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg (optional, to bind the ricotta)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg (if using), dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Assemble the dish: In a large baking dish (9×13 inches), spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked ziti, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat with another layer of pasta, sauce, and the remaining cheese mixture. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

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Cooking Tips and Variations

• Vegan Baked Ziti: For a vegan version, you can substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese options like cashew ricotta and vegan mozzarella. You can also omit the egg or use a flax egg as a binder.
• Add Veggies: For extra flavor and nutrition, stir in some sautéed veggies like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers into the sauce before assembling the dish.
• Spicy Ziti: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or top the baked ziti with a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free. There are many great gluten-free pasta options available today that work perfectly in baked ziti recipes.

To make the dish even more indulgent, you can also add a handful of mozzarella to the top for a crispy, cheesy crust.

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Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Calcium: 35%
• Iron: 15%

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Storage Instructions

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Baked ziti also freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating from frozen, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until it’s heated all the way through.

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Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Add Protein: If you want to add some protein to this meatless version, you can stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or plant-based sausage into the sauce for added texture and flavor.
• Make it Pesto Ziti: Swap the marinara sauce for basil pesto for a different flavor twist. The pesto pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta and mozzarella.
• Baked Ziti Casserole: For a fun twist, bake the ziti in individual ramekins for individual servings, or top each one with breadcrumbs and bake until golden brown for a crispy crust.
• More Cheese: You can’t go wrong with extra cheese. If you love cheesy dishes, add an extra layer of mozzarella or ricotta between the pasta layers for a super cheesy experience.

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Tips for Buying and Preparing Ziti Pasta

When buying ziti, look for high-quality pasta made from durum wheat semolina for the best texture. While the traditional choice for baked ziti is ziti, you can also use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even fusilli. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven and you want it to hold up to the sauce and cheese.

If you prefer a softer texture, feel free to cook the pasta a little less than al dente. This will ensure the pasta is tender and absorbs more of the sauce.

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Serving Suggestions

Baked ziti is perfect on its own, but it can be elevated with a few side dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy, buttered garlic bread to scoop up any extra sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette or a tangy Caesar salad makes a great side to balance the richness of the ziti.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts are a perfect match for the cheesy, savory ziti.

Pair with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Pinot Noir, for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.

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FAQs About Baked Ziti Without Meat

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the baked ziti a day ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone if you prefer. For the mozzarella, use a blend of cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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Final Bite

This Baked Ziti without meat is the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, savory, and hearty, making it the perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Whether you’re vegetarian or just craving something a little lighter, this dish will satisfy your hunger and taste buds.

Enjoy making this baked ziti, and don’t forget to share your creations with me in the comments or tag me on social media. I’d love to see how it turned out!

Happy cooking!