Name: Meatless Baked Ziti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz ziti or rigatoni pasta 3 cups marinara sauce 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese 1 large egg 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional) 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

This Meatless Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food you didn’t know you needed. Packed with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and a savory tomato sauce, it delivers all the cozy satisfaction of a classic baked pasta dish—without the meat. Whether you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian dinner option or simply trying to shake up your pasta night, this ziti brings big flavor and cheesy goodness.

Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or potlucks, this dish is both easy to make and guaranteed to impress. The combination of al dente pasta, tangy marinara, and luscious layers of cheese creates that irresistible golden top and bubbly, saucy center. Trust us, even meat lovers will be asking for seconds.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Ziti pasta is traditionally used in this dish, but if you can’t find it, rigatoni or penne work just as well. Look for a tube-shaped pasta that holds the sauce and cheese in every bite. The ridges on rigatoni especially help grip that delicious marinara and melted cheese.

Ingredients for the Meatless Baked Ziti

Ziti or Rigatoni Pasta

This forms the base of the dish, giving it structure and substance. Al dente is key so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.

Marinara Sauce

Go with your favorite store-bought or homemade tomato sauce. This gives the ziti its rich, tangy flavor and binds everything together.

Ricotta Cheese

Creamy and mild, ricotta adds a luscious texture to the filling. You can also mix in a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella provides that perfect melt and stretch. Use part-skim for less grease or whole milk for richness.

Parmesan Cheese

A salty, nutty kick that complements the other cheeses beautifully. Sprinkle it generously on top for a golden crust.

Egg

Mixed with the ricotta, the egg helps bind the filling and gives it structure when baked.

Fresh Basil or Parsley

Herbs add freshness and color. Basil brings a sweet, aromatic flavor while parsley is more grassy and peppery.

Olive Oil and Garlic (optional)

Sautéing garlic in olive oil before adding it to the sauce gives the dish extra depth and warmth.

How To Make the Meatless Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the ziti or rigatoni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. Avoid overcooking—the pasta will continue to cook in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a beaten egg, a bit of Parmesan, and chopped herbs. Stir until well mixed. This will be the creamy layer tucked into your ziti.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Toss the cooked pasta with remaining sauce, then add half into the dish. Dollop with the ricotta mixture, then layer on shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers and finish with a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let it rest for 10 minutes after baking to set. Sprinkle with more fresh herbs before serving.

Serving and Storing This Cheesy Meatless Bake

This Meatless Baked Ziti is best served warm, straight from the oven, when the cheese is still bubbling and gooey. Pair it with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer portions into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it—either whole or in individual servings—for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot all the way through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the ziti from becoming dry?

Make sure your pasta is generously coated in sauce before baking. Cover with foil during the first part of baking to lock in moisture.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

You can substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives and skip the egg. Look for almond or cashew-based ricotta and vegan mozzarella shreds.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Sautéed spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added to the sauce or layered in for extra nutrition and flavor.

What’s the best way to reheat baked ziti?

Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For a single serving, the microwave works great too.

Do I have to use ricotta cheese?

If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or a béchamel sauce instead for a different take on the creamy texture.

Want More Pasta Bake Ideas?

If you’re loving this Meatless Baked Ziti, be sure to check out these other flavorful pasta dishes from Life with Jam:

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli for a cheesy, comforting bowl with savory depth.
Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli for a quick skillet meal loaded with roasted veggie goodness.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a bold and creamy twist on tortellini.
Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef for a meaty alternative that’s still comfort-food central.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for fewer dishes, more flavor.

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And if you give this a try, drop a comment! Did you add veggies, change the cheese, or spice it up? I love hearing your kitchen twists.

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