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Vegan Baked Ziti

This vegan baked ziti combines al dente pasta layered with a savory tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs, topped with melty plant-based cheeses and roasted vegetables. Baked until bubbling and golden, it offers a hearty, cheesy texture with a colorful, caramelized vegetable topping. The dish is a comforting, plant-based twist on classic baked ziti, perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ziti pasta uncooked
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes preferably fire-roasted for depth
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 pound zucchini sliced into thin rounds
  • 1 pound eggplant sliced into thin rounds
  • 1 bell pepper red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 cup plant-based ricotta
  • 1 cup vegan mozzarella shredded
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the sliced zucchini, eggplant, and chopped bell pepper on a baking sheet, drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for about 20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  2. Meanwhile, cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just shy of al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and herbs, simmering for 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomato sauce, roasted vegetables, and chopped bell pepper. Mix gently to evenly coat everything in the sauce.
  5. Layer half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Dot with dollops of plant-based ricotta and sprinkle with half of the shredded vegan mozzarella and nutritional yeast.
  6. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then evenly distribute the remaining ricotta, mozzarella, and nutritional yeast over the surface.
  7. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbling around the edges and the cheese topping is golden and slightly crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes; this helps the cheese set slightly for easier slicing.
  9. Slice and serve your vegan baked ziti hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the hearty, cheesy goodness.