Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked Ziti Recipe (No Meat) – The Ultimate Comfort Dish

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If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dish but want to skip the meat, this baked ziti recipe (no meat) is perfect for you. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking for a delicious meatless meal, this dish brings all the comfort and flavor without the need for ground beef or sausage.

Let’s dive in and create a cheesy, saucy, baked ziti masterpiece.

What Is Baked Ziti?

Baked ziti is an Italian-American casserole made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses. It’s similar to lasagna but much easier to make—no layering required! Instead, everything is mixed together and baked to perfection in one dish.

Traditional baked ziti often includes ground beef or sausage, but this meatless version is just as delicious, packed with rich flavors and gooey, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients for Meatless Baked Ziti

Here’s what you’ll need for this vegetarian baked ziti recipe:

For the Pasta & Sauce

1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, if preferred)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1.00 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for texture)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
1.00 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
Salt & pepper to taste

For the Cheese Mixture

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the ziti pasta until just al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions).
  • Drain and coat with a bit of olive oil to keep from sticking.

Make the Tomato Sauce

  • Warm olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
  • Stir in tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  • Let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

For an extra creamy variation, try adding ½ cup of Alfredo sauce! (Check out this homemade Alfredo sauce recipe for inspiration).

Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  • In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup mozzarella.
  • Stir until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Baked Ziti

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with half of the tomato sauce.
  • Evenly distribute half of the pasta mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Add all of the ricotta mixture, spreading evenly.
  • Layer the rest of the pasta on top.
  • Pour over the remaining sauce and sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella on top.

Bake & Serve

  • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Take off the foil and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve hot!
baked ziti recipe no meat

What to Serve with Baked Ziti?

Pair your baked ziti with these delicious side dishes:

Garlic Bread – A must-have for scooping up the extra sauce.
Fresh Green Salad – A simple Italian salad with balsamic dressing complements the richness.
🫒 Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant for extra nutrition.

*Want more creamy pasta dishes? Check out this *Spaghetti Alfredo recipe!

Variations & Dietary Adaptations

Vegan Baked Ziti

  • Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella (like cashew or almond-based cheese).
  • Swap the egg for 2 tbsp of plant-based milk or a flax egg.

Gluten-Free Baked Ziti

  • Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free ziti or penne.

Extra Cheesy Version

  • Add cream cheese or burrata for ultimate creaminess.

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Fridge

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

  • Assemble the baked ziti, cover tightly, and freeze before baking.
  • When ready to serve, bake straight from frozen at 375°F for 45-50 minutes.

Reheating

  • Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave single servings.

Pro Tips for the Best Meatless Baked Ziti

Undercook the pasta slightly to avoid mushiness.
Use whole milk ricotta and mozzarella for richer flavor.
Let the baked ziti rest before serving—it helps set the layers.
Add fresh basil on top for extra Italian flavor.

Final Thoughts

This baked ziti recipe (no meat) is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make, incredibly comforting, and completely customizable. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or serving a big family gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Love creamy pasta dishes? Check out Alfredo Sauce Recipe to add a twist to your baked ziti!

Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments below,

Spaghetti Alfredo: The Ultimate Creamy Pasta Recipe
Homemade Turkey Breakfast Sausage Recipe (for a meaty alternative).

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