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Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish

Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

A delicious and hearty version of the classic baked ziti loaded with fresh vegetables.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups bell peppers, diced
  • 2 cups spinach, chopped
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
  4. Add the bell peppers and spinach, cooking until just wilted.
  5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, then let simmer for 10 minutes.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly.
  7. Spread half of the pasta mixture in a baking dish and top with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and mozzarella.
  8. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • For added flavor, you can stir in some red pepper flakes.
  • Feel free to load the dish with more veggies of your choice.

Nutrition

Keywords: Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti, Baked Ziti, Vegetarian Pasta, Comfort Food