Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe

Name: Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz whole wheat ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Discover a delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with this Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe. Loaded with wholesome ingredients, it's a meal the whole family will love.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:25:20.689Z

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole combines pasta, vegetables, and a flavorful tomato sauce for a comforting meal that's also good for you. It's perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Comforting and satisfying without the guilt
Packed with nutritious ingredients and flavor
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

A Healthier Twist on a Classic

Baked ziti is a quintessential comfort food that many people adore. However, traditional recipes can often be heavy and high in calories. This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor. By using whole wheat pasta and incorporating fresh vegetables, this dish provides a nutritious spin on the classic recipe, making it a great choice for health-conscious families.

The blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses adds a creamy texture, while the marinara sauce infuses the dish with rich tomato flavor. Each bite of this casserole is not only satisfying but also nourishing, ensuring that you and your loved ones can enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt.

Customizable for Every Palate

One of the best aspects of this Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe is its versatility. You can easily tailor the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Consider adding mushrooms, broccoli, or even some roasted eggplant to enhance the flavors and nutrition of the dish.

If you're looking to boost the protein content, you might also incorporate cooked ground turkey or chicken. This adaptability not only makes meal prep simpler but also ensures that your casserole can be a new dish every time you make it.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is an ideal option for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge or freezer, and simply bake it when you're ready to enjoy a wholesome meal. This makes it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

Additionally, leftovers can be easily reheated, maintaining the deliciousness of the dish. This not only saves time but also reduces food waste, allowing you to make the most out of your ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

8 oz whole wheat ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 zucchini, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match veggies according to your preference!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the whole wheat ziti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and cooked pasta. Add the diced zucchini, bell pepper, and spinach, mixing until well combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Layer the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheeses.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

To achieve the best results with your Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole, ensure that you do not overcook the pasta during the initial boiling phase. It should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and enhances the overall texture of the dish.

Using a good quality marinara sauce can significantly elevate the flavors. If time permits, consider making your own sauce from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for an extra layer of freshness and taste.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the baked ziti, creating a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.

For an added touch, serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor that brightens the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked ziti for up to 3 months. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a vegan ricotta can be used as a substitute.