Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe

Name: Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 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

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe combines the comforting flavors of traditional baked ziti with nutritious ingredients for a guilt-free delight.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-28T19:22:08.953Z

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is a delicious twist on a classic Italian dish, packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A healthier take on a classic comfort food
Packed with vegetables and lean protein
Easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers

      

Nutritional Benefits

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is not just a delightful dish; it’s also brimming with nutritional benefits. By using whole wheat ziti pasta, you’re choosing a more wholesome carbohydrate option that is higher in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. The addition of fresh vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach adds essential vitamins and minerals, making this dish a well-rounded meal.

Incorporating lean protein sources such as ricotta cheese not only enhances the creaminess of the dish but also contributes to muscle repair and overall health. This casserole is a great way to satisfy your cravings without compromising on nutrition, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best things about this Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is its convenience in meal preparation. It’s an ideal recipe for batch cooking; you can prepare multiple servings in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Simply store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a nutritious meal ready to go for busy days or quick dinners.

To make meal prep even simpler, consider assembling the casserole ahead of time and storing it in the fridge before baking. This way, you can pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat, making it a fantastic option for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence.

Customization Options

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Mushrooms, broccoli, or even eggplant can make excellent additions to this hearty dish.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can easily replace ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives. Additionally, for those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the marinara sauce to give it an extra kick. The versatility of this recipe ensures that it can cater to a variety of palates.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

12 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

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the whole wheat ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the zucchini and bell pepper until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the pasta mixture in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your healthy baked ziti casserole with a side salad for a complete meal!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole with a simple side salad for a complete meal. A mix of greens, such as arugula or spinach, tossed with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. You might also consider serving it with whole-grain garlic bread for a satisfying and hearty dinner option.

For a fresh twist, add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your dish, making it more visually appealing.

Storage and Reheating

To store your Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and they can last for up to 3 months.

When it's time to reheat, you can do so in the oven or microwave. If using the oven, cover the casserole with foil to keep it from drying out, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. In the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

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

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just portion it out into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative like tofu blended until smooth.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is vegetarian, but you can add cooked ground turkey or chicken for a protein boost.