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When it comes to family meals, finding a dish that pleases both kids and adults can often feel like a daunting task. Enter the Cheesy Hidden Veggie Baked Ziti—a delectable, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters. This recipe not only serves up a heaping portion of cheesy goodness but also sneaks in a variety of nutritious vegetables, ensuring that your loved ones are getting the vitamins and minerals they need without even noticing.

Easy Baked Ziti with Hidden Veggies

Discover the ultimate family-friendly dish with this Cheesy Hidden Veggie Baked Ziti recipe! This comforting pasta wonder is loaded with gooey cheese and sneaky veggies, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Perfect for busy nights, this nutritious meal ensures your loved ones get essential vitamins in a delicious way. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture while knowing you’re serving up a healthier twist on a classic favorite that everyone will rave about.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 medium carrot, finely grated

1 small zucchini, finely grated

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté the veggies: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the minced garlic, grated carrot, zucchini, red bell pepper, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until all vegetables are tender.

        Combine the sauce and cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the marinara sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

          Mix pasta and veggie sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the vegetable marinara sauce until evenly coated.

            Layer the ziti: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture across the bottom. Dot with spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture, then add the remaining pasta on top. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese over everything.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6