Why You’ll Love this Vegan Baked Ziti Recipe
You’ll love this Vegan Baked Ziti recipe because it brings comfort food to a whole new level without sacrificing flavor.
Trust me, it’s packed with deliciousness that even non-vegans can’t resist. The rich, hearty sauce mingles perfectly with the ziti and the savory sausage flavor really shines through.
Plus, with fresh herbs like basil and oregano, it’s bursting with freshness. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
The gooey, melted soy mozzarella on top creates that irresistible cheesy pull. Once you try it, you’ll want to make this dish again and again!
Ingredients of Vegan Baked Ziti
When it comes to whipping up a delicious dish that’s sure to please a crowd, this Vegan Baked Ziti recipe has got your back. You won’t believe how simple it’s to gather the ingredients and create a hearty meal that everyone will love, even those who aren’t on the vegan train. Plus, with this list, you’ll be all set to dive right into the cooking process.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Vegan Baked Ziti:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 (14 ounce) package Gimmie Lean sausage flavor
- 2 (25 1/2 ounce) jars pasta sauce (Muir Glen Tomato Basil is a great choice)
- 1 white onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, coarsely chopped
- 4 leaves fresh basil, torn (for that extra pop of flavor)
- 1/2 cup fresh oregano, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup soy mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Now, before you sprint off to the store, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, if you can get your hands on fresh herbs, do it! They really elevate the dish and add that garden-fresh flavor.
And don’t stress too much about the brand of pasta sauce; any good-quality marinara will do, but I personally love the Muir Glen Tomato Basil for its slightly sweet and tangy taste.
Oh, and if you’re not a fan of soy mozzarella, feel free to swap in another vegan cheese that melts well. Just remember, the cheesy goodness is what makes this dish so comforting.
How to Make Vegan Baked Ziti
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this Vegan Baked Ziti. First things first, grab a pot and fill it with water to boil. You’ll want to make sure it’s nice and salty, like your favorite ocean getaway.
While that water is heating up, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering and ready, toss in the 14-ounce package of Gimmie Lean sausage flavor. Now, here’s where the fun begins: break that sausage up into bite-sized pieces using the edge of your spoon. You want it to brown nicely, so let it sizzle away for a bit. If only my cooking skills were as smooth as my spoon work…
While your sausage is getting its golden brown tan, it’s time to multitask. If your water’s boiling, add in that 1 pound of ziti pasta and let it cook until it’s al dente—just a tad firm to the bite, not mushy.
Back at the pan, add 1 finely chopped white onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the sausage. Stir it all together until the onions soften and turn translucent. By the time you’ve got that down, your pasta should be ready for action. Drain the ziti, but don’t forget to return it to the pot right after.
Now the real magic happens. Combine the ziti with the sausage-onion-garlic mixture, 1 ½ jars of your favorite pasta sauce, half of the 1 cup of grated soy mozzarella cheese, and a generous handful of chopped fresh basil (about ½ cup) and oregano (½ cup as well). Toss everything together like you’re a professional chef—impress yourself.
Then, transfer this hearty mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then drizzle the remaining sauce on top, scatter the torn basil leaves for a pop of color, and finally, sprinkle the rest of that cheesy goodness on top.
Cover the dish with foil and pop it into the preheated oven at 425°F. Let it bake for about 40 minutes, or until everything is bubbling and the cheese is melting into gooey perfection. Just imagine that delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen.
When it’s done, pull it out and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes—this is the hardest part, I know. But trust me, it’s worth the wait. Slice it up and enjoy a comforting bowl of vegan deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds, maybe even thirds. And hey, you might just impress some non-vegans along the way.
Vegan Baked Ziti Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to customize your Vegan Baked Ziti, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to explore. You can swap the ziti for penne or rigatoni for a different texture.
For protein, try lentils or chickpeas instead of the Gimmie Lean sausage. If you want a creamier dish, blend some soaked cashews into a cheesy sauce.
You can also experiment with different vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, for added nutrition. Finally, if you’re not a fan of soy mozzarella, nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Enjoy making it your own!
What to Serve with Vegan Baked Ziti
While Vegan Baked Ziti is a hearty meal on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience.
I love serving a fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the ziti. Garlic bread is another favorite—it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Roasted vegetables, like zucchini and bell peppers, add color and flavor to the meal. If I want something warm and comforting, a bowl of vegetable soup can be a great choice too.
These sides complement the ziti beautifully, making for a satisfying dinner.
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing Vegan Baked Ziti with the right sides sets the stage for a delightful meal, but there are also some tips to guarantee your dish turns out perfectly.
First, don’t skip the fresh herbs; they elevate the flavors considerably. If you can, use homemade sauce for an extra touch.
For a creamier texture, consider adding a vegan ricotta made from blended tofu and nutritional yeast.
When baking, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, then uncover for the final 10 minutes for that golden finish.
Finally, let it rest before serving; it helps the ziti hold together beautifully!