Delicious Baked Ziti Primavera

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Delicious Baked Ziti Primavera.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your baked ziti is perfectly cooked and bubbly by the time it’s ready to serve. Next, fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is bubbling away, toss in the ziti and let it cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until it’s al dente—about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta in a colander and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the ziti to a large roasting pan, ready for all the delicious toppings to come!

2. Step 2

   In a separate bowl, whisk together one jar of spaghetti sauce with the ricotta cheese until smooth and creamy. Pour this delightful mixture over the ziti and give it a good stir to combine. Now, let’s add some greens! Place the baby spinach in a food processor and blend until finely chopped. Set it aside for later. Next, chop the baby carrots in the food processor until they’re nice and small.

3. Step 3

   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped carrots and sauté them for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Then, stir in the diced zucchini, portobello mushrooms, button mushrooms, and minced garlic. Cook this colorful medley for about 4 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender. Remove the skillet from the heat and fold in the chopped spinach, drained diced tomatoes, and 2 tablespoons of Italian seasoning. Mix well and then add this vibrant veggie mixture to the ziti, stirring to combine.

4. Step 4

   Sprinkle about half of the shredded Italian cheese blend over the pasta and mix it in. Now, pour in the remaining three jars of spaghetti sauce, ensuring every bit of pasta and veggies are coated in that rich, flavorful sauce. Season with the remaining Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, and give it another good stir. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that goodness inside.

5. Step 5

   It’s time to bake! Place the covered pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded beautifully. After that, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Pop it back in the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

6. Step 6

   Once done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This baked ziti primavera is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that everyone will love!