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 grain ziti pasta; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Enjoy a deliciously wholesome twist on a classic Italian dish with this Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2025-12-28T21:01:14.898Z

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is a comforting dish that combines whole grain pasta with fresh vegetables and a lightened-up cheese sauce. It's a great way to sneak in some extra veggies for the family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious ingredients that don't compromise on flavor
Cheesy goodness that everyone will adore
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or proteins
Perfect for leftovers or meal prep for the week ahead

      

A Wholesome Take on a Classic

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole reimagines a beloved Italian classic with a focus on nutrition without sacrificing taste. By using whole grain pasta and fresh vegetables, you can enjoy a comforting meal that nourishes the body. The rich flavors of marinara sauce combined with cheesy goodness make it a hit for both kids and adults alike.

Incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients ensures that each serving is packed with vitamins and minerals. The addition of spinach, zucchini, and bell pepper not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant touch to the dish. This casserole proves that healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the fantastic aspects of this Baked Ziti Casserole is its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to create a dish that suits your preferences. Consider adding mushrooms, broccoli, or even grilled chicken for an extra protein boost. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a perfect canvas for culinary creativity.

You can also adjust the cheese to cater to dietary needs or preferences. Opt for dairy-free cheese alternatives or reduce the amount of ricotta for a lighter version. This adaptability makes it an excellent option for family dinners or gatherings where everyone may have different tastes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This casserole is not only delicious but also ideal for meal prep. Prepare a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have ready-to-eat lunches or dinners throughout the week. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave without losing its delightful texture and flavor.

Leftovers can be a lifesaver on busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal without the fuss of cooking from scratch. Just portion it out, and you have a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s ready to go whenever you need it.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

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

Feel free to substitute any of the vegetables with your favorites!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, sauté the zucchini and bell pepper over medium heat until soft. Add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, sautéed vegetables, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

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

Serve warm with a side salad for a complete meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Whole grain pasta provides complex carbohydrates that keep you energized and satiated. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh vegetables contributes essential vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health and well-being.

Ricotta cheese offers a good source of protein and calcium, which are crucial for maintaining strong bones and muscles. By incorporating spinach and other veggies, you add fiber to your diet, aiding in digestion and keeping you feeling full longer. This dish demonstrates that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and nutritious.

Serving Suggestions

To complement your Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole. You can also offer whole grain garlic bread as a side for a comforting touch.

For a complete Italian-inspired meal, pair it with a glass of red wine or a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage. These drinks can enhance the dining experience, making your meal feel more festive and special.

Storage Tips

To store your leftover Healthy Baked Ziti Casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out in the oven. A splash of marinara sauce can help maintain moisture and enhance the flavor. Enjoy this dish more than once with minimal effort, making it a convenient addition to your meal planning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the whole grain ziti with gluten-free pasta.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping and freezing.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, broccoli, or carrots.