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Homemade Vegetarian Baked Ziti photo

Vegetarian Baked Ziti

This Vegetarian Baked Ziti is a cheesy delight! A comforting combination of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a medley of melted cheeses.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1/2 pound dry rigatoni or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup white button mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups tomato-based pasta sauce (Italian Tomato Sauce recommended)
  • 3 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
  • 3/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
  • 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet for sautéing mushrooms
  • Baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches)
  • Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
  • Spatula or wooden spoon for mixing
  • Oven for baking

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Pasta - Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry rigatoni or penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms - In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the sliced white button mushrooms and sauté until they are soft and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Step 3: Combine the Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms, tomato-based pasta sauce, sour cream, provolone cheese, and Gorgonzola cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and coated in the sauce.
  4. Step 4: Assemble the Dish - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the bottom of your baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer. Then, add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. Step 5: Bake to Perfection - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Step 6: Let it Cool and Serve - Once baked, remove the Vegetarian Baked Ziti from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make serving easier. Slice into portions and enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will cook further in the oven.
  • Coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce to prevent dryness.
  • Allow the dish to rest after baking for easier serving.