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Homemade Easy Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe photo

Easy Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe

A comforting, cheesy baked ziti that's simple to assemble and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 30 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 parmesan cheese shredded and divided
  • 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

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the ziti in the boiling water according to package instructions until al dente (about 9–11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then add the ricotta and stir until smooth.
  4. Add 1 cup of the mozzarella, 1/2 cup of the parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, pepper, and minced garlic to the ricotta mixture and mix until combined.
  5. Toss the drained pasta with the ricotta-cheese mixture until the pasta is evenly coated.
  6. Lightly oil or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread about half the marinara sauce (about 2 cups) on the bottom of the dish.
  7. Transfer the cheesy pasta into the baking dish and spread evenly, then spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup parmesan evenly over the sauce.
  9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the cheeses are melted.
  10. If desired, remove the foil and bake an additional 3–5 minutes to brown the top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Substitute other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, penne, fusilli, or bowties if desired.
  • Use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder instead of fresh garlic if preferred.