Name: Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 cups tomato sauce – jarred or homemade; 1 carrot – chopped into small pieces; 2 stalks celery – chopped into small pieces; 1 yellow onion – diced; 2 cups finely chopped lacinato kale (about 10 leaves); 2 cloves garlic – minced; 16 ounces dried ziti; 16 ounces ricotta cheese; 1 egg – lightly beaten; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting Italian classic that’s both hearty and packed with wholesome vegetables, this Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender ziti pasta smothered in a vibrant tomato sauce bursting with chopped carrots, celery, kale, and onion, layered with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a touch of parmesan. This dish is the perfect way to enjoy all the rich, familiar flavors of baked ziti without a hint of meat, making it an ultimate crowd-pleaser that even meat-eaters will rave about. It’s satisfying, nutritious, and downright delicious from the first bite to the last.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled texture. At the top left is a white bowl filled with dark green leafy kale. To the right of the bowl, there are chopped white onions, light green celery, and orange carrots lined up in piles on a light wooden cutting board. Below these, there is a small stack of white garlic cloves on the cutting board's edge. Below the cutting board on the left, there are two bags of shredded cheese, one with a pale yellow color and one with a lighter, off-white color. In the center below the cutting board, there is a white bowl filled with creamy white ricotta cheese. To its right, there is a white bowl with light yellow dry tube pasta. Next to the pasta bowl, there is a small brown wooden bowl holding one brown egg. In front of these, there is a jar of red marinara sauce with a green lid, labeled

This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create layers of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a distinct role, from the fresh vegetables adding a burst of nutrition and sweetness to the cheeses which bring creaminess and depth.

5 cups tomato sauce: Use jarred or homemade for a tangy, rich base that holds the entire dish together.
1 carrot, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and a slight crunch to the sauce.
2 stalks celery, chopped: Contributes a subtle earthiness and enhances the sauce’s body.
1 yellow onion, diced: Brings savory flavor and aroma to the veggie mix.
2 cups finely chopped lacinato kale: Adds a mild bitterness and vibrant green color, boosting the nutrition factor.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that classic Italian garlicky kick.
16 ounces dried ziti: Perfect pasta shape that holds sauce wonderfully while maintaining a satisfying bite.
16 ounces ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, creating a delightful contrast to the tomato sauce.
1 egg, lightly beaten: Binds the ricotta mixture for a smooth, cohesive texture.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to a stretchy, bubbly topping that everyone loves.
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the cheesy layers.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh for garnish, adding brightness and a pop of color.

How to Make Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetable-Packed Sauce

Start by pouring your tomato sauce into a pot over medium-low heat. Add the chopped carrot, celery, onion, kale, and minced garlic. This is the heart of your Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe. Simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly, until the vegetables soften and the sauce melds into a harmonious, flavorful base. This slow, patient cooking deepens the flavors and softens the veggies just right—don’t rush this step.

Step 2: Cook the Ziti Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried ziti and cook it for about 2 to 3 minutes less than the package instructions indicate. This ensures your pasta stays firm and won’t turn mushy once it bakes. Drain it well and rinse briefly under warm water to stop the cooking process—perfectly al dente pasta is crucial for this recipe.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling

In a spacious bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, half a cup of parmesan, and the beaten egg. This cheesy mixture binds the pasta and infuses it with creamy, luscious flavor that contrasts beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta with Cheese Mixture

Add the cooked ziti into the bowl with the cheese blend. Stir gently but thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is lovingly coated with the cheese mixture. This step guarantees that each forkful has the perfect balance of creamy ricotta and cheeses.

Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Begin by spreading half of the vegetable tomato sauce on the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Then, layer the ziti and cheese mixture evenly on top. Spread it out smoothly with a spatula to create an even surface. Pour the remaining sauce over the pasta layer, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top, ready to melt into a golden crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to keep moisture in, and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbling and beautifully browned. Patience here rewards you with that irresistible baked cheese crust.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish

When you take the Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe out of the oven, let it rest for at least 5 to 10 minutes. This allows everything to set so it’s easier to serve. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley—this adds just the right amount of freshness and color to this hearty, vegetable-packed delight.

How to Serve Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe

A clear glass baking dish filled with a baked lasagna, showing about three layers: a reddish tomato sauce mixed with bits of dark green spinach or herbs, a layer of bright orange pasta sheets beneath, and a thick top layer of melted white cheese sprinkled evenly with chopped green parsley. The edges show slightly browned cheese and sauce bubbling up. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, with small white bowls nearby, one holding shredded cheese and another with chopped herbs. A striped cloth is partly visible on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil leaves. These herbs bring a lovely contrast to the rich tomato sauce and cheeses, elevating every bite with a fresh finish. A drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also add a little extra flair for adventurous palates.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty Italian bread are excellent companions, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables make a nutritious, colorful addition to complete the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe in individual ramekins for a personal touch at dinners or gatherings. Layer in small glass jars for a portable meal or bring it as a potluck dish that impresses every time. You can also add a layer of sautéed mushrooms or olives in the sauce for different flavor profiles.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully! To freeze, assemble the baked ziti in a freezer-safe container but do not bake it first, or freeze leftovers after baking. Wrapped tightly, it can last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce before reheating keeps the dish moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of ziti?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even small shells would work wonderfully since they equally hold onto the sauce and cheese. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to keep them al dente.

Is this Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe as written includes cheese and egg, so it’s not vegan. However, you can make it vegan by swapping the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives and omitting the egg or using a flax egg as a binder.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional dried ziti. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions for the best texture.

What’s the best way to add more vegetables to this dish?

Feel free to toss in zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the other vegetables in the sauce. This recipe is flexible and a great way to use up any fresh veggies you have on hand.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?

Definitely. Assemble the ziti in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Meatless Baked Ziti with Vegetables Recipe is such a joy to make and to share, inviting everyone to delight in a flavorful, satisfying meal that celebrates vegetables and cheesy goodness alike. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or entertaining friends who appreciate hearty, meat-free options bursting with flavor. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen!