Veggie-Packed Baked Ziti
Veggie-Packed Baked Ziti is a delightful and nutritious twist on a classic dish, combining layers of tender ziti pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknight dinners, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. With vibrant colors and an explosion of flavors, this baked ziti is not just a meal; it’s a celebration that even picky eaters will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté bell peppers, zucchini, and garlic in olive oil for about five minutes until tender.
- Stir in marinara sauce and herbs; let simmer for five minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella.
- Layer half the cooked ziti in the baking dish, followed by half the veggie-sauce mixture and half the ricotta-mozzarella blend. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg