There’s nothing quite like a steaming hot, cheesy baked ziti to hit the spot on a chilly evening. The gooey melted cheese and perfectly baked pasta transport me back to family dinners at my Nonna’s house, where love and warmth filled every bite. The secret to this Melted Cheese And Hidden Veggie Baked Ziti lies in the subtle addition of pureed veggies that add nutrition without compromising flavor. Try pairing this with our Healthy Hummus Veggie Wraps for a balanced meal that the whole family will love.
Recipe Courtesy of Our Kitchen
Melted Cheese And Hidden Veggie Baked Ziti
★★★★★ (55 Reviews)
Ingredients
12 oz ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and chopped
1/2 cup sliced ricotta salata cheese
Directions
1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and chopped basil.
3
Combine the ricotta cheese, garlic, and spinach in a separate bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4
Combine the cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce mixture, and ricotta mixture in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Transfer to the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
5
Remove the baking dish from the oven and top with sliced ricotta salata cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
