VEGAN BAKED ZITI

Vegan Baked Ziti offers all the heartiness of traditional baked pasta with a wholesome, plant-based twist. Tender cooked pasta is smothered in a vibrant marinara sauce, layered with creamy tofu ricotta, then baked until bubbling and golden. A touch of olive oil enhances richness, while fresh basil brings aromatic brightness to the dish. Ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals, this single-serve version is quick to prepare and immensely satisfying. With its comforting flavours and minimal ingredient list, it’s also a perfect introduction to vegan cuisine for those new to plant-based eating. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or multiplying portions for guests, this baked ziti delivers indulgence without compromise. It reheats well, packs in protein, and leaves you full and nourished without the heaviness of dairy. Serve with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete, balanced meal.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Dinner

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Italian

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

Bake

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Valentine’s Day, Winter, Fall

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Vegan, Vegetarian, Healthy, High Fibre, Low Cholesterol, Low Fat, Quick & Easy

DISH TYPE

Casserole / Gratin

INGREDIENTS

There are the following ingredients for Vegan Baked Ziti:

• 1 cup cooked pasta

• ½ cup marinara sauce

• ¼ cup tofu ricotta

• 1 tsp olive oil

• Fresh basil to garnish

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 422.3 kcal

• Fat: 14.3 g

• Saturated Fat: 5.1 g

• Carbohydrate: 57.8 g

• Sugar: 7.5 g

• Sodium: 646.9 mg

• Fiber: 5.1 g

• Protein: 14.9 g

• Cholesterol: 33 mg

• Vitamin D: 0.1 mg

• Calcium: 189.9 mg

• Iron: 2.1 mg

• Potassium: 649.8 mg

• Trans Fat: 0.2 g

PREPARATION

These steps are followed for the preparation of Vegan Baked Ziti:

• Preheat The Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (fan 170°C) and lightly oil a small ovenproof dish.

• Mix Pasta And Sauce: In a bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce until evenly coated.

• Layer The Dish: Spoon half of the pasta mixture into the baking dish. Spread the tofu ricotta over it, then top with the remaining pasta.

• Drizzle With Olive Oil: Pour a teaspoon of olive oil over the top for added richness.

• Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.

• Garnish And Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

PREP TIME

10 minutes

COOKING TIME

20 minutes

TIPS

Here are some helpful tips for Vegan Baked Ziti:

• Pasta Choice: Use short, ridged pasta like penne or rigatoni to hold more sauce and ricotta.

• Even Coating: Toss pasta in sauce thoroughly before layering to ensure every bite is flavourful.

• Tofu Ricotta Shortcut: Blend firm tofu with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic and salt to create a creamy dairy-free ricotta in minutes.

• Baking Dish Size: Use a small, snug-fitting dish to maintain structure and prevent drying out.

VARIATIONS

• Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach or courgettes for added fibre and nutrients.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chilli oil for a kick of heat.

• Cheesy Top: Sprinkle vegan mozzarella on top before baking for a golden, melty crust.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta if needed without compromising taste or texture.

• Protein Boost: Add lentils or crumbled tempeh between layers for an extra protein punch.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze before baking by assembling the dish in a freezer-safe container. Cover and freeze for up to 1 month.

• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 180°C until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight before reheating for best results.

• Meal Prep: Make multiple portions in advance and bake as needed for convenient meals throughout the week.