Go Back
Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

This Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti is a delicious, comforting baked pasta dish loaded with colorful vegetables, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or potlucks — it’s an easy baked ziti that’s hearty, healthy, and sure to impress everyone at the table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz ziti or penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 zucchini diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms sliced
  • 1 bell pepper chopped
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese plus extra for topping
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ lb ground beef optional
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
  4. Add zucchini, mushrooms, and bell pepper. Cook until soft.
  5. Add ground beef (optional) and brown fully.
  6. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.
  7. Combine pasta with sauce, ricotta, half the mozzarella, and Parmesan.
  8. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
  • Mix in spinach or kale for extra greens.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  • For creamy richness, stir in a bit of cream cheese before baking.
  • Double the recipe for freezing — it reheats perfectly!