Baked Ziti Recipe (Vegetarian) (2025)

It’s so easy to make Vegetarian Baked Ziti! Here’s how to put it together:

1. Cook the pasta.
2. Meanwhile, place the chopped vegetables in a casserole dish, drizzle with oil, and add salt/pepper/dried oregano to taste.
3. Bake the vegetables for about 10 minutes (or until they begin to soften).
4. Remove from the oven and set aside.
5. Layer half of everything as follows: pasta, pasta sauce, vegetables, cottage cheese, mozzarella.
6. Repeat a second layer of everything in the casserole dish.
7. Top the casserole dish with parmesan and fresh basil (optional).
8. Bake for about 15-20 minutes and enjoy!

Vegetarian Baked Ziti Recipe Variations

Add Veggies:Try adding spinach, kale, or even some roasted butternut squash for a hearty twist. Just layer them in with the other vegetables before baking!

Cheese Swap:If you’re a fan of different cheeses, feel free to experiment! Ricotta can replace cottage cheese for a creamier texture, or try using a sharp cheddar or gouda for a bolder flavor.

Make It Spicy:If your family likes a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the pasta sauce or sprinkle them on top before baking. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Gluten-Free:For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the regular ziti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The rest of the recipe stays the same, and you’ll still get all that delicious baked goodness.

Protein Boost:If you’re looking to up the protein, feel free to add some cooked lentils or chickpeas into the mix. They blend in beautifully with the sauce and give the dish a bit more substance!

How to Serve Baked Ziti (Vegetarian)

Serve baked ziti with these yummy sides for a delicious meal!

• Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
• Rosemary Mushroom Rice Pilaf
• Crispy Air Fryer Zucchini
• Easy Quinoa Salad With Feta Cheese

Storing leftover Vegetable Baked Ziti

Place any leftovers in a large airtight container and let cool. Add the lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months!

To reheat, add about 1-2 teaspoons of broth or water and heat in the microwave or oven until evenly warm.

Vegetarian Baked Ziti FAQs

What’s the difference between baked ziti and lasagna?

Baked ziti is made by layering pasta, sauce, and cheese in a casserole dish, while lasagna uses wide, flat noodles and typically has more distinct layers, often including ricotta cheese.

Should baked ziti be covered when baking?

It’s best to bake ziti uncovered so the cheese on top can melt and turn golden brown. If you prefer a softer top, you can cover it with foil for the first half of the baking time.

Why is my baked ziti so watery?

Watery baked ziti can happen if there’s excess moisture from the sauce or vegetables. To prevent this, make sure to drain your pasta well and use a thicker sauce or pre-cook the vegetables to release some of their moisture.

4.70 from 40 votes

• ▢ 8 oz. box ziti or penne pasta (dry)
• ▢ 4 cups pasta sauce
• ▢ 1 red bell pepper (medium)
• ▢ 10 oz. mushrooms
• ▢ 1 zucchini (small)
• ▢ 1 Tbsp olive oil
• ▢ 1/2 cup low fat cottage cheese (small curd)
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
• ▢ 1/2 cup parmesan
• ▢ 1 tsp dried oregano
• ▢ salt/pepper
• ▢ fresh basil (optional)

• Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

• Cook the pasta according to directions and drain.

• While the pasta is cooking, chop the vegetables into small pieces.

• Place the vegetables in a casserole dish, drizzle with olive oil, and add salt/pepper/dried oregano to taste.

• Bake the vegetables for about 10 minutes (or until they start getting soft).

• Remove the vegetables from the oven and set aside.

• Layer half of everything as follows: pasta, pasta sauce, vegetables, cottage cheese, mozzarella.

• Repeat a second layer of everything in the casserole dish.

• Top the casserole dish with parmesan and fresh basil (optional).

• Bake for about 15-20 minutes.

• Serve and enjoy!