Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti – Cozy Weeknight Casserole

Name: Vegan and Gluten Free Baked Ziti
Prep time: PT-485347H21M41S
Cook time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz box gluten free pasta (Penne or rotini is fine.); 12 oz vegan meat alternative; 2 tsp minced garlic (or 2 fresh cloves); 14 oz. extra firm tofu (pressed and cubed); 1/2 cup cashews (raw and unsalted); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 heaping Tbsp. nutritional yeast; 2 Tbsp lemon juice; (2) 24 oz. marinara sauce; 8 oz. vegan mozzarella shreds or liquid vegan mozzarella

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Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·5 from 1 review

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

side view of a freshly baked Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti casserole in a white baking dish, topped with melted dairy-free cheese and garnished with fresh parsley. This hearty, plant-based pasta bake is perfect for cozy family dinners, meal prepping, and gluten-free vegan comfort food meals.

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.

Top view of a vegan and gluten-free baked pasta casserole topped with melted dairy-free cheese and fresh parsley in a white baking dish.

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 vegan, gluten-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.

Close-up of a freshly baked Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti casserole topped with melted dairy-free cheese and garnished with fresh parsley. This hearty, plant-based pasta dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or a comforting gluten-free vegan meal.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out these pasta dishes!

Ingredients

Gluten-Free Pasta: Any gluten-free pasta works, but I usually opt for penne or rotini.
Vegan Meat Alternative: this can be omitted if meat substitutes aren’t your thing.
Garlic: Fresh or minced garlic works perfectly for added flavor.
Extra-Firm Tofu: Be sure to press your tofu and remove excess water before using it in the ricotta mixture.
Raw Cashews: Choose unsalted, raw cashews to blend with the tofu for a creamy, ricotta-like texture.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary adds that signature Italian flavor.
Nutritional Yeast: This is key for giving your ricotta a cheesy, savory flavor that’s perfect for vegan dishes.
Lemon juice: Adds a bit of zest to your vegan ricotta
Marinara Sauce: Make sure the sauce is dairy-free by checking the ingredient label.
Vegan Cheese Shreds or Liquid Vegan Mozzarella: For that delicious, melty cheese topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Soak your cashews

While the oven preheats, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the raw cashews and let them soak for at least 10 minutes to soften. Alternatively, you can heat 2 cups of water in the microwave until boiling, then carefully pour it over the cashews to soak.

Step 3: Prepare the Tofu Ricotta

While the cashews are soaking, press your block of tofu to remove any excess water. Once the cashews are softened, combine the tofu, drained cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning in a food processor. Pulse or blend until smooth and creamy, resembling the texture of traditional ricotta cheese.

Step 4: Cook the Vegan “Meat” Alternative

In a large sauté pan, cook the vegan meat alternative with minced garlic until the meat is browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Boil the Pasta

Content

Step 6: Assemble your 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. Then give the pasta mixture a stir. Finally, top with your choice of vegan cheese shreds(mozzarella-style) or liquid vegan mozzarella.

Step 7: Bake

Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Step 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:

Cool the Dish First: After baking, let the ziti cool down to room temperature before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Store in an Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover baked ziti into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors in the fridge.
Refrigerate: Store the baked ziti in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze the ziti. Place the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then foil. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Instructions:

In the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the leftover ziti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out.
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:

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

Close-up of a hearty serving of Vegan and Gluten-Free Baked Ziti on a white plate, featuring gluten-free pasta tossed in a rich dairy-free tomato and vegan cheese sauce. This comforting, plant-based baked pasta dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or easy weeknight meals.

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FAQ

1. What gluten-free pasta works best for baked ziti?

Look for sturdy gluten-free pasta like brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based ziti noodles that can hold up well during baking without getting mushy.

2. Can I add additional vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to stir in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini!

3. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.