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Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

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Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti is a comforting pasta casserole layered with tender ziti, a medley of colorful vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheeses. It’s a satisfying, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cups spinach or kale, roughly chopped
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  4. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Cook until slightly tender, then stir in spinach until wilted.
  5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the veggie sauce and half the mozzarella.
  7. Spread half the mixture in a greased baking dish. Add dollops of ricotta, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Repeat the layers and finish with remaining mozzarella on top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  10. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve.

Notes

  • Switch up vegetables based on the season—try eggplant, broccoli, or corn.
  • Add lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • For a spicy version, increase red pepper flakes or add jalapeños.
  • Make it vegan by using dairy-free cheese and plant-based ricotta.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/loaded-veggie-baked-ziti/