Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Meatless Baked Ziti bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden top.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta - In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables - In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot, sautéing until they are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Seasonings - To the skillet with the vegetables, add the tomato passata or marinara sauce along with the dried Italian herbs, oregano, sugar, ground fennel, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture - In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese. Mix well until creamy and smooth. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the sauce mixture, making sure each piece of pasta is well-coated.
Step 7: Layer the Dish - In your baking dish, spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture evenly. Then dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Top with the remaining pasta and sauce, spreading it out evenly.
Step 8: Add the Cheese Topping - Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top of the baked ziti. This will create a deliciously gooey and cheesy crust.
Step 9: Bake - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish - Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the layers of cheesy goodness!
