Baked Ziti Without Sauce

This baked ziti without sauce is a simple, comforting pasta dish that focuses on the natural flavors of cheese, pasta, and seasonings without relying on traditional tomato or cream sauces. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter, less tangy version of the classic, this dish is versatile and easy to prepare for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ideal for those who want a pasta bake without heavy sauces.

• Uses pantry-friendly and affordable ingredients.

• Customizable with vegetables, herbs, or different cheeses.

• Can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.

• Comfort food with a mild, creamy taste from cheese and butter.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ziti pasta

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Ricotta cheese

• Butter

• Garlic powder

• Dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

• Salt

• Black pepper

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, butter, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.

4. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until evenly coated.

5. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.

6. Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 35 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.

• Use cheddar or provolone in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.

• Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a mild kick.

• Add cooked ground chicken, turkey, or beef for extra protein.

• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-friendly version.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.

• Individual portions can be microwaved for 2–3 minutes, though the texture may be softer.

• For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months and reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake before serving.

Can I use penne instead of ziti?

Yes, penne works as a great substitute with the same baking instructions.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Cover with foil during baking and avoid overcooking the pasta before baking.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based cheese alternatives and vegan butter.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely, sautéed or roasted vegetables work well in this recipe.

What if I do not have ricotta?

You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone as a replacement.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or spicy sausage.

Does it freeze well?

Yes, it freezes for up to 2 months with minimal loss of flavor and texture.

Should I undercook the pasta before baking?

Slightly undercooking helps maintain texture after baking.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

Conclusion

Baked ziti without sauce offers a creamy, mild, and comforting alternative to traditional tomato-based pasta bakes. Its simplicity makes it perfect for customizing with different cheeses, herbs, vegetables, or proteins. Whether you prepare it for a casual family dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction without the heaviness of sauce

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