Savor the Delight of Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables Today!

If you’re craving a comforting, veggie-packed pasta dish, look no further than Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables. This hearty and satisfying recipe combines the classic flavors of ziti pasta, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a delicious Italian-inspired meal while sneaking in some extra nutrients.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 cups assorted vegetables, chopped (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, red onion, mushrooms)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

How to Make Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables

Preheat Oven & Prepare Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and chop all your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces, aiming for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Roast Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Cook Ziti

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the pasta well.

Combine Pasta & Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the roasted vegetables. Gently toss them together to distribute the vegetables evenly throughout the pasta.

Prepare Sauce Mixture

In a separate large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta and vegetable mixture. Spread half of the sauce mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and mozzarella.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish & Serve

Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with the chopped fresh basil before serving.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables

For even more flavor, consider using a combination of bell peppers in different colors or try adding roasted butternut squash or eggplant to the veggie mix. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as fontina or provolone, to customize the dish to your liking.

To store any leftovers, simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer the ziti to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When ready to reheat, you can either bake the dish at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Pair this Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a crisp white wine for a complete and satisfying Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
• Vegetable Lasagna
• Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
• Penne Arrabbiata with Roasted Veggies

Frequently Asked Questions

What veggies go with baked ziti?

The classic vegetables used in baked ziti with roasted vegetables include bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, red onion, and mushrooms. You can also try adding other seasonal veggies like butternut squash, broccoli, or spinach.

What’s the secret to a flavorful ziti?

The key to a flavorful baked ziti is to roast the vegetables before adding them to the dish. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and enhances the flavors of the vegetables. Additionally, using a high-quality marinara sauce and a blend of cheeses, such as ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella, can take the dish to the next level.

What are some common ziti mistakes?

Some common mistakes to avoid when making baked ziti include overcooking the pasta, not roasting the vegetables thoroughly, using too much or too little sauce, and not letting the dish rest before serving. It’s also important to balance the different flavors and textures to create a harmonious and satisfying dish.

How to make a pasta sauce with roasted vegetables?

To make a pasta sauce with roasted vegetables, simply toss the roasted vegetables (like the ones used in this recipe) with a high-quality marinara sauce. You can then use this flavorful sauce to coat the cooked ziti pasta before assembling and baking the dish.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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