September 22, 2022

Vegan & Gluten Free Baked Ziti

vegan and gluten free baked ziti

Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti: A Comforting and Nutritious Plant-Based Meal

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both vegan and gluten-free, look no further than this Baked Ziti! This plant-based twist on a classic Italian favorite is packed with delicious flavors, making it the perfect dish for family dinners or meal prep. With a rich tomato sauce, perfectly cooked gluten-free pasta, and a creamy vegan cheese blend, every bite is indulgent yet nourishing. Whether you follow a vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free lifestyle, this recipe will satisfy your cravings for a cheesy, baked pasta dish while providing a nutritious, wholesome meal.

Not only is this Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also packed with nutritional benefits! The dish is loaded with plant-based protein and fiber from the gluten-free pasta and tofu-based cheese, offering a filling meal that’s also light on your stomach. The tomato sauce provides a healthy dose of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the vegan cheese is rich in healthy fats and nutrients. You’ll enjoy the comforting taste of traditional baked ziti with the added benefit of being dairy-free, gluten-free, and full of goodness.

This simple, yet flavorful recipe is sure to become a family favorite, whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a healthier take on a classic pasta dish. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your next dinner night a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti:

✔ Comfort Food, Made Healthier: This baked ziti has all the cozy, indulgent flavors of the classic version you know and love, but with a healthy, plant-based twist. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a beloved comfort food!

✔ Packed with Plant-Based Protein: Thanks to the tofu-based cheese and gluten-free pasta, this recipe is packed with plant-based protein, keeping you satisfied and energized. It’s a great way to refuel after a long day or as a protein-packed meal for your week.

✔ Nutrient-Rich and Filling: With its rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and vegan cheese, this baked ziti is loaded with essential vitamins and antioxidants, like vitamin C from tomatoes and fiber from gluten-free pasta, helping you stay full and nourished.

✔ Perfect for Special Diets: Whether you follow a vegangluten-free, or dairy-free lifestyle, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s allergy-friendly, making it a great option for families or dinner parties where different dietary needs are considered.

✔ Easy to Make and Meal Prep-Friendly: This baked ziti is not only easy to throw together, but it also makes for excellent leftovers! Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

✔ Family-Friendly: Everyone, from the kids to adults, will love this dish! It’s hearty, cheesy (thanks to the vegan cheese!), and comforting, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even potlucks.

✔ Rich and Flavorful: You’ll savor every bite of the creamy, cheesy filling combined with the tangy tomato sauce. It’s a flavor-packed meal that brings all the comforting goodness of classic baked ziti, but without the dairy or gluten.

This baked ziti recipe is a delicious, nourishing, and family-friendly option that can easily become a new go-to meal for anyone looking for a healthier, plant-based twist on a classic comfort food. It’s the perfect balance of indulgent flavors with wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients that you’ll feel good about eating.


Ingredients for vegan and gluten free baked ziti

How to Make Vegan and Gluten Free Baked Ziti

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Soak the Cashews: While the oven is heating up, bring 2-3 cups of water to a boil. Add the raw cashews to the water and let them soak for at least 10 minutes to soften.
  3. Prepare the Tofu Ricotta: While the cashews are soaking, press the tofu to remove any excess water. Once the cashews are softened, combine the tofu, drained cashews, nutritional yeast, and Italian seasoning in a food processor. Pulse or blend until smooth and creamy, resembling the texture of traditional ricotta cheese.
  4. Cook the Vegan Meat: In a large sauté pan, cook the vegan meat alternative with minced garlic until the meat is browned and cooked through.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the gluten-free pasta (penne or rotini works best) according to the package instructions. Be sure to stir occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
  6. Assemble the Baked Ziti: In a prepared 9×13 inch baking pan, lightly grease with cooking spray or oil. Start by layering the pasta in the pan, followed by a layer of the vegan ricotta cheese. Add another layer of pasta, then top with the vegan meat mixture and marinara sauce. Finally, top with your choice of vegan cheese shreds(mozzarella-style) or liquid vegan mozzarella.
  7. Bake: Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti!

Storage Instructions:

Reheating Instructions:

In the Oven:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover ziti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
  3. Reheat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If it’s frozen, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

In the Microwave:

  1. Place a serving of ziti on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
  3. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through for even heating.
  4. If reheating a frozen portion, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

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vegan and gluten free baked ziti

Vegan and Gluten Free Baked Ziti

Course Main Course

Equipment

  • food processor

Ingredients
  

  • (2) 8 oz  boxes gluten free pasta Penne or rotini is fine.
  • 12 oz vegan meat alternative ex. impossible meat
  • 2 tsp minced garlic or 2 fresh cloves
  • 14 oz. extra firm tofu  pressed and cubed
  • 1 cup cashews raw and unsalted
  • 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
  • (2) 24 oz. marinara sauce
  • 8 oz. vegan mozzarella shreds or liquid vegan mozzarella

Instructions
 

  • preheat your oven to 350° F
  • bring 2-3 cups water to a boil and add in cashews.  
  • Let the cashews soak and soften in the water for a minimum of 10 minutes. 
  • press your tofu to remove excess water. 
  • After the cashews are softened, add tofu, drained cashews, nutritional yeast, and Italian seasoning to food processor.  Pulse/blend until smooth and it resembles ricotta cheese consistency.
  • In a large sauté pan, brown your vegan meat alternative with garlic until cooked through. 
  • Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions, stirring occasionally.
  •  Drain pasta and stir together with vegan meat alternative and marinara sauce. 
  • Prepare a 9 x 13 pan with cooking oil and pour in one layer of pasta.
  • Top with vegan ricotta cheese followed by another layer of pasta.  
  • Finish by topping with vegan cheese mozzarella style shreds or vegan cheese liquid such as liquid vegan pizza mozzarella.
  • Let bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and enjoy!

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