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Homemade Easy Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe photo

Easy Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe

This Easy Meatless Baked Ziti is a family favorite! Layers of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and zesty marinara make it a delightful meatless meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Ziti pasta
  • 16 ounces Ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Parsley
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 32 ounces Marinara sauce

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Pasta - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling - In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
  3. Step 3: Layer the Ingredients - Spread a little marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti on top of the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat this process with another layer of marinara sauce, the remaining ziti, and the rest of the ricotta mixture.
  4. Step 4: Add the Final Touches - Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top layer, making sure to cover it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy, golden crust.
  5. Step 5: Bake the Ziti - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy - Once baked, allow the ziti to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy your Easy Meatless Baked Ziti!

Notes

  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • To freeze, cover tightly and store for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in the oven for best results.