Zucchini Baked Ziti Recipe 🍝
Description: This baked ziti is absolutely delicious and guaranteed to have your guests coming back for thirds! It’s a bit involved but worth the effort. I usually make one to bake immediately and freeze another pan to cook later, so this recipe yields two pans. Fresh basil is essential to achieve the perfect flavor.
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 2 pans
- Calories: 590 per serving
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | Zucchini |
| 1/2 cup | Olive oil |
| 1 | Ziti pasta |
| 1 | Onion |
| 2 cloves | Garlic |
| 2 | Tomatoes |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh basil leaves |
| 1/4 cup | Fresh parsley |
| – | Salt |
| – | Pepper |
| 4 tbsp | Butter |
| 1 1/2 cup | Mozzarella cheese |
| 1 1/2 cup | Parmesan cheese |
Instructions:
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Boil Pasta: Boil water and cook the ziti according to package directions. While it is cooking, proceed with the next steps.
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Prepare Zucchini: Slice the zucchini into rounds. In a skillet, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat and fry the zucchini until browned on both sides. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
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Prepare Sauce: In a saucepan, heat the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil. Add the onion and cook until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the diced tomatoes, basil leaves, parsley, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked ziti and transfer it to a large bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the ziti and mix well to combine.
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Assemble Baked Ziti: Rub two shallow baking pans with olive oil. In the first pan, layer 1/4 of the ziti followed by 1/4 of the fried zucchini. Dot with 1/4 of the butter, then sprinkle with 1/4 of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers in the same pan. Repeat this process for the second pan.
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Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until the top is brown and crusty.
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Freezing Options: If you prefer to freeze one or both pans:
- Bake One, Freeze One: Bake one pan as directed and tightly cover the other pan with aluminum foil before freezing.
- Freeze Both: Cover the unbaked pan tightly with aluminum foil and freeze. Defrost before baking.
Enjoy this mouthwatering Zucchini Baked Ziti with your family and friends! It’s perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving a comforting and satisfying meal. 🥂
