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Baked ziti is a quintessential comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This Cheesy Veggie-Laden Baked Ziti recipe elevates the classic dish by incorporating a variety of vegetables, making it not only delicious but also nutritious. With layers of rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of preparing this mouthwatering baked ziti, including the ingredients, preparation steps, and insights into its nutritional benefits.

Easy Baked Ziti with Hidden Veggies

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Veggie-Laden Baked Ziti, a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This recipe features layers of rich marinara, creamy ricotta, and ooey-gooey mozzarella, enhanced by a colorful medley of fresh vegetables for a nutritious boost. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this hearty dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Enjoy a satisfying meal that the whole family will love, while sneaking in those essential nutrients.
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Ingredients
  

12 ounces ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, finely grated

1 medium zucchini, finely grated

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, incorporate the minced garlic, grated carrot, finely grated zucchini, and diced bell pepper into the skillet. Continue to cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

        Season the Mixture: Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste, into the skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well to combine the sautéed vegetables with the sauce. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.

          Combine Pasta and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the previously cooked ziti with the marinara-vegetable mixture. Gently fold in the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella, mixing until the pasta is thoroughly coated.

            Assemble the Baked Ziti: Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Layer the rest of the pasta mixture over this, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

              Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to avoid sticking (for easier removal, you can spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5-10 minutes to set before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the delightful blend of cheesy goodness and hidden veggies!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6