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Homemade Easy Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe photo

Easy Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe

A simple, cheesy baked ziti that's quick to assemble and perfect for a family dinner.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 eggs
  • 16 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese diced or shredded, divided (1 cup for filling, 1 cup for topping)
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese shredded and divided (1/2 cup for filling, 1/2 cup for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 32 ounces marinara sauce about 4 cups total, divided (2 cups for bottom of dish, 2 cups for top)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil or spray a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente (about 9–11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, crack the eggs and beat briefly, then add the ricotta and mix until smooth.
  • Add 1 cup shredded or diced mozzarella, 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, pepper, and minced garlic to the ricotta; stir until combined.
  • Toss the drained ziti with the ricotta-cheese mixture until the pasta is evenly coated.
  • Spread about 2 cups of marinara sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, then add the cheesy pasta and spread evenly.
  • Spoon the remaining 2 cups marinara over the pasta, then top with the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup Parmesan.
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until sauce is bubbling. Remove foil and bake 3–5 minutes more if you want the top browned.
  • Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving, then sprinkle with additional parsley or basil if desired.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Aluminum Foil

Notes

  • Other short pasta shapes (rigatoni, penne, fusilli, or bowties) can be used.
  • Garlic powder can substitute for fresh garlic; use 1/2 teaspoon.