If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that celebrates vibrant, tender veggies alongside cheesy, saucy pasta bliss, then this Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining perfectly roasted cauliflower, sweet bell peppers, and caramelized onions with tender ziti enveloped in rich marinara and creamy cheeses, each bite bursts with layers of flavor and texture that feel both homey and indulgent. It’s the ultimate dish to impress your family or guests without demanding hours at the stove, making it a staple for cozy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors. From the fragrant fresh basil to the rich marinara and the melty mozzarella, these simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully.

Cauliflower: A medium head cut into florets adds a subtle earthiness and satisfying bite once roasted.
Red bell pepper: Cubed into 1-inch squares, it brings sweetness and vibrant color that brightens the dish.
Yellow onion: Sliced into wedges for caramelizing, offering natural sweetness and depth.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Two tablespoons, divided, to coat and roast the veggies perfectly.
Fine salt: A quarter teaspoon to season and enhance every flavor component.
Ziti pasta: Eight ounces of your choice between ziti, rigatoni, or penne, providing the ideal tubular shape to hold sauce and cheese.
Marinara sauce: Four cups, preferably your favorite homemade or good-quality store-bought for a rich tomato base.
Fresh basil: A quarter cup chopped to infuse fresh, herbaceous notes, plus extra for garnish.
Mozzarella cheese: Eight ounces grated and divided to add melty, gooey texture at every layer.
Cottage or ricotta cheese: Two cups divided, for creamy dollops that balance the roasted vegetables perfectly.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables

Step 1: Roast the Vegetables

Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and position racks in the middle and upper third spots. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the vegetables from sticking and ease cleanup. Spread the cauliflower florets on one pan and the red peppers with sliced onion on the other. Drizzle half the olive oil on each pan, sprinkle with salt, then toss the veggies gently. Roast until tender and caramelized, tossing halfway through and switching rack positions to ensure even cooking—this imparts a rich sweetness and irresistible roasted charm to your vegetables, making this Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables truly special.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the veggies roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until just al dente following the package instructions. Remember, it will finish cooking in the oven, so you want it to still have a bit of firmness to prevent mushiness in the final dish. Drain the pasta then return it to the pot to prepare for mixing with the sauce and cheeses.

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Sauce and Cheese

To your drained pasta, add two cups of marinara sauce, the chopped fresh basil, and half of the grated mozzarella cheese. Stir everything gently to ensure the pasta is coated evenly. This simple combination starts layering in flavor and moisture that will make each bite irresistible once baked.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

In a 9 by 13-inch baking dish, spread a cup of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking and create a saucy base. Layer half of the pasta mixture evenly on top. Add the roasted cauliflower evenly over that, followed by dollops of a cup of cottage or ricotta cheese—no need to spread it evenly, the pockets of creaminess are part of the magic—and sprinkle half a cup of mozzarella over the top.

Step 5: Add Remaining Layers

Next, layer the remaining pasta on top, then evenly distribute the roasted bell peppers and onions. Add the last cup of cottage or ricotta cheese in dollops, followed by the remaining cup of marinara sauce spooned over everything. Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, preparing the dish for the oven.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place a clean baking sheet on the lower oven rack to catch any drips, then place your ziti dish uncovered on the rack above it. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes, then move the dish to the upper rack for 2 to 5 additional minutes if you want deeply golden, bubbly cheese on top. Once out of the oven, let your Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables rest for 10 minutes to set up, making it easier to slice and enjoy.

How to Serve Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly torn basil leaves brightens and freshens this dish beautifully, balancing the richness of the cheeses and roasted vegetables. For a little extra flair, you might add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil before serving to enhance the flavor even further.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides to complement its hearty nature. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a simple arugula salad adds peppery brightness, while some garlic bread or crusty Italian bread rounds out the meal perfectly by soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this for a crowd or special occasion, consider baking individual portions in small ramekins for a personal touch. You can also add a handful of toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving to add texture and depth. Serving with colorful, fresh herbs or edible flowers can elevate the presentation, making your Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables feel elegant yet homey.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables reheats beautifully, making it great for lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze the fully assembled dish before baking or after it has been cooked and cooled. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel or in a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven covered with foil until warmed through. Remove the foil near the end if you want to refresh the bubbly cheese on top. The roasted vegetables hold up nicely, making every bite just as delicious the second time around.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap or add veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach according to your preference or what’s in season. Just keep in mind roasting times, as denser vegetables may take longer to caramelize.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded mozzarella?

You can use pre-shredded mozzarella for convenience, but freshly shredded tends to melt better and has less added starch, resulting in a creamier texture.

Can I prepare this dish vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Use a plant-based ricotta or cottage cheese alternative and a vegan mozzarella substitute. Be sure to check that your marinara sauce is free of animal products, and consider adding nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cooking the pasta just until al dente and not overcooking during the stovetop boil is key since it will continue softening in the oven. Also, spreading ingredients evenly prevents soggy spots.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply substitute the ziti with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your marinara sauce does not contain any gluten-containing thickeners. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables is a delicious, cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With every layer bringing something special—from the caramelized roasted veggies to the melty cheese and savory sauce—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it over and over again, sharing this comforting joy with everyone you love.