This vegan baked ziti is a comforting dish featuring pasta, marinara sauce, and a creamy vegan cheese blend. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, and it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 400 g (14 oz) ziti or penne pasta
• Salt (for boiling water)

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (800 g / 28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

For the Vegan Cheese:

• 200 g (7 oz) firm tofu, drained
• 60 ml (¼ cup) nutritional yeast
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Vegan Cheese Mixture

1. In a food processor, combine the firm tofu, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with half of the marinara sauce and half of the vegan cheese mixture. Mix well.
2. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a baking dish. Top with half of the remaining marinara sauce and half of the remaining vegan cheese mixture.
3. Layer the remaining pasta on top, followed by the rest of the marinara sauce and vegan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and slightly golden on top.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Baked Ziti

• Pasta Choice: While ziti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer such as penne or rigatoni.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, mix in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into your pasta mixture before baking.
• Cheesy Topping: For an extra cheesy top layer, sprinkle some vegan mozzarella or additional nutritional yeast before baking.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

This vegan baked ziti is not only delicious but also customizable to your taste preferences! Enjoy this hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal!