Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti -

When it comes to comfort food, pasta bakes always make the list. But what if you could enjoy the same rich, cheesy goodness of baked pasta while packing in a rainbow of nutritious vegetables? That’s exactly what Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti delivers: a hearty, bubbling dish filled with flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep, this recipe combines the best of both worlds—indulgent comfort food and veggie-packed nutrition.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the ultimate Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti—from the full ingredient list and tools to step-by-step instructions, tips, nutritional breakdown, and serving ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Wholesome & Filling: Packed with fresh vegetables, this ziti makes you feel good about eating comfort food.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters enjoy it thanks to the cheesy layers and rich tomato sauce.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and bake when needed.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients for Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish. The variety of vegetables not only adds color but also layers of flavor and nutrients.

Pasta & Sauce

1 pound (450 g) ziti pasta (or penne)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 medium yellow squash, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small
2 medium carrots, shredded or finely diced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste

Cheese Mixture

1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Garnish

Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Kitchen Tools Needed

Large pot for boiling pasta
Large skillet or sauté pan
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon or spatula
9×13-inch baking dish
Foil for covering during baking
Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions for Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the ziti and cook until just al dente (about 8 minutes, slightly undercooked since it will bake later).
Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Add onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
Stir in garlic, zucchini, squash, mushrooms, bell pepper, carrots, and broccoli.
Cook until the vegetables soften but are still slightly firm (7–8 minutes).

3: Prepare the Sauce

To the skillet, add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan.
Mix until smooth and creamy.

5: Assemble the Ziti

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread 1 cup of sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add half of the pasta, followed by half the remaining sauce and half of the ricotta mixture.
Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella over the top.
Repeat layers with remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta, and finish with the rest of the mozzarella.

6: Bake

Cover dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Undercook the pasta: Since the ziti will bake, slightly undercooking it prevents mushiness.
Cut vegetables evenly: Ensures consistent texture and cooking.
Don’t skimp on cheese: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the perfect creamy texture.
Make it ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Add protein: For extra heartiness, add ground turkey, sausage, or plant-based meat.
Spice it up: A pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper can give it a kick.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 8 Servings)

Calories: ~420
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 6g
Sodium: 580mg
Sugars: 8g

(Values may vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes.)

Variations of Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Vegan Version: Swap ricotta with cashew or tofu ricotta, use dairy-free mozzarella, and omit egg.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Mediterranean Style: Add olives, artichokes, and feta cheese.
Spicy Italian: Mix in spicy Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
Extra Creamy: Stir a splash of heavy cream into the sauce for richness.

What to Serve with Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks – for dipping into the sauce.
Green Salad – a crisp side balances the richness.
Roasted Vegetables – for an extra veggie boost.
Red Wine – like Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with tomato-based pasta dishes.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap; freeze up to 3 months.
Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Conclusion: Make Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti Tonight!

Comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or lacking in nutrition. With this Loaded Veggie Baked Ziti, you get the best of both worlds—a hearty pasta bake layered with gooey cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and a rainbow of fresh vegetables. Whether you’re feeding your family, prepping for a week of meals, or hosting friends, this dish will satisfy every craving.