Jar Of Lemons
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I’ve been making this easy Vegetarian Baked Ziti recipe for YEARS and my family still asks for it all of the time! It’s one of our favorites and is truly the best 30-minute healthy dinner idea. Made with mushrooms, zucchini, bell pepper, cottage cheese, and delicious ziti pasta, this healthy and comforting meal is full of nutrition and cheesy goodness. Every bite is SO good!
Easy, healthy pasta recipes are recently my new go-to for weeknight dinners (have you tried The BEST Easy Healthy Lasagna Recipe? SO GOOD). Not only can they typically be made in 30 minutes or less, but I love that I can refrigerate the leftovers and have them throughout the week! Especially with a 6 almost 7 month old baby in our lives now. There’s no time for complicated dinners, so I’m all about quick and easy dinners right now. This Easy Vegetarian Baked Ziti Recipe is a total lifesaver!
It’s so easy to make Vegetarian Baked Ziti! Here’s how to put it together:
Add Veggies:Â Try adding spinach, kale, or even some roasted butternut squash for a hearty twist. Just layer them in with the other vegetables before baking!
Cheese Swap:Â If you’re a fan of different cheeses, feel free to experiment! Ricotta can replace cottage cheese for a creamier texture, or try using a sharp cheddar or gouda for a bolder flavor.
Make It Spicy: If your family likes a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pasta sauce or sprinkle them on top before baking. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Gluten-Free:Â For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular ziti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you’ll still get all that delicious baked goodness.
Protein Boost: If you’re looking to up the protein, feel free to add some cooked lentils or chickpeas into the mix. They blend in beautifully with the sauce and give the dish a bit more substance!
Serve baked ziti with these yummy sides for a delicious meal!
Place any leftovers in a large airtight container and let cool. Add the lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months!
To reheat, add about 1-2 teaspoons of broth or water and heat in the microwave or oven until evenly warm.
What’s the difference between baked ziti and lasagna?
Baked ziti is made by layering pasta, sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish, while lasagna uses wide, flat noodles and typically has more distinct layers, often including ricotta cheese.
Should baked ziti be covered when baking?
It’s best to bake ziti uncovered so the cheese on top can melt and turn golden brown. If you prefer a softer top, you can cover it with foil for the first half of the baking time.
Why is my baked ziti so watery?
Watery baked ziti can happen if there’s excess moisture from the sauce or vegetables. To prevent this, make sure to drain your pasta well and use a thicker sauce or pre-cook the vegetables to release some of their moisture.
Loving this Easy Vegetarian Baked Ziti Recipe? Then you’ll love these other healthy pasta recipes:
Michelle says:
Delicious and easy!
Jar Of Lemons replied:
Thanks, Michelle!
sarah says:
came out really good. i added lawrys seasoned salt, basil oregano, onion powder and garlic to the vegetable bake. great dinner!