This Dairy-Free Baked Ziti with Vegan Cheese is a delicious plant-based twist on the classic Italian comfort food. Featuring layers of al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy homemade cashew ricotta, this dish is both satisfying and allergy-friendly.
Ready in under an hour, this Vegan Baked Ziti Recipe can be customized with vegan parmesan, fresh herbs, or optional vegan ground beef for added protein, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining.
Classic Vegan Baked Ziti Recipe
This Dairy-Free Baked Ziti with Vegan Cheese is a delightful take on the traditional Italian comfort dish. It features layers of perfectly cooked pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cashew ricotta, making it a satisfying choice for anyone seeking a plant-based meal.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, this Vegan Baked Ziti Recipe is not only quick but also customizable. You can enhance it with vegan parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or even vegan ground beef for those looking to add protein. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients for a Hearty Dish
To create this Vegan Pasta Bake, you will need a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Start with 12 oz of ziti pasta, which can be gluten-free if preferred. The base of the dish is a rich marinara sauce, complemented by a creamy cashew ricotta made from soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
For a cheesy finish, vegan mozzarella cheese shreds are used, and you can garnish the dish with fresh basil or parsley. Optional additions like vegan parmesan cheese and vegan ground beef can elevate the dish further, making it versatile for various dietary preferences.
Assembling the Layers
Creating this Baked Ziti Dairy Free is all about layering. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta until al dente, then drain it and set it aside. In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews and other ingredients to create a smooth ricotta.
In a large baking dish, start with a layer of marinara sauce, followed by half of the cooked ziti, half of the cashew ricotta, and half of the vegan mozzarella. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ensuring a delightful mix of flavors in every bite.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, cover the dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this initial baking period, remove the foil and allow it to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that golden, bubbly top that makes this Vegan Baked Ziti With Cashew Cheese so appealing.
After baking, let the dish cool for a few minutes before garnishing it with fresh herbs and optional vegan parmesan cheese. This final touch adds a burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.
Nutritional Benefits
This Vegan Ziti Recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 15g of fat and 10g of protein. The combination of cashews and nutritional yeast provides a creamy texture and a boost of essential nutrients, making this dish a wholesome choice for any meal.
With 45g of carbohydrates per serving, it offers a satisfying and filling option for those looking for comfort food without the dairy. This Gluten Free Dairy Free Baked Ziti is a great way to enjoy a classic dish while adhering to dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
This Dairy-Free Baked Ziti is best served hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. The layers of pasta, marinara, and creamy cashew ricotta create a delightful experience that everyone will enjoy.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this Vegan Baked Ziti will surely impress. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout dish in the realm of vegan comfort food.
Classic Vegan Baked Ziti Recipe
This Vegan Pasta Bake combines layers of pasta with a flavorful marinara sauce and creamy Vegan Baked Ziti with Cashew Cheese. The dish bakes until golden and bubbly, delivering authentic Italian flavor without dairy or meat. It serves 6 and is perfect for those looking for a Gluten Free Dairy Free Baked Ziti option.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta (gluten-free if desired)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup cashews, soaked for 4 hours and drained
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese shreds
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Vegan parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
- 1 cup vegan ground beef (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cashew Ricotta: In a blender or food processor, combine soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Dish: In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the cashew ricotta, and half of the vegan mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs and vegan parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g