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Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti: Comfort Food Your Family Will Love

Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti is a delightful dish that combines rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and fresh vegetables, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 oz Ziti Pasta Substitute with gluten-free ziti for gluten-free option.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Use homemade or ensure jarred sauce is vegan.
For the Creamy Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Substitute with vegan ricotta if dairy-free.
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese Low-moisture mozzarella works best; choose vegan shredded cheese if desired.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Use nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative.
For the Veggies
  • 4 cups Mixed Vegetables Includes spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini; frozen spinach can be used when thawed and drained.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add your mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 10-12 minutes until al dente.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with ricotta cheese and marinara sauce. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese.
  4. Add the drained ziti pasta to the vegetable and cheese mixture and gently fold until fully incorporated.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  7. Once baked, allow the ziti to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

Expert tips: Cook pasta al dente, sauté vegetables thoroughly, use low-moisture mozzarella for better flavor, and make the mixture ahead of time for enhanced taste.