Description
All the cozy, cheesy comfort of baked ziti—without the oven, layering, or waiting. These Deconstructed Cheesy Baked Ziti Bowls deliver tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and creamy vegan “cheese” in one fast, satisfying bowl. They’re 100% plant-based, packed with protein, and ready in about 15 minutes—perfect for busy nights when you want comfort now.
Ingredients
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1½ cups cooked ziti or penne pasta
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1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed completely dry
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½ cup vegan ricotta or tofu ricotta
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¼ cup vegan cream cheese or plain dairy-free yogurt
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½ cup marinara or tomato sauce
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2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
- Vegan mozzarella shreds
Instructions
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Make the Creamy Base
In a medium bowl, combine spinach, vegan ricotta, vegan cream cheese (or yogurt), nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined. -
Add Pasta & Sauce
Fold in the cooked pasta and marinara sauce, stirring gently until every piece is coated. -
Heat
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Skillet method: Transfer to a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and warm for 3–5 minutes, stirring gently.
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Microwave method: Heat in 60-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
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Optional Cheesy Finish
Sprinkle vegan mozzarella on top and heat until melted (under the broiler for 1–2 minutes or microwave for 45–60 seconds). - Serve
Spoon into bowls and enjoy warm.
Notes
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Squeeze spinach extremely well to avoid watery sauce
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Nutritional yeast is essential for cheesy depth—don’t skip it
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Use al dente pasta so it doesn’t turn mushy when reheated
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Add a splash of plant milk when reheating leftovers for creaminess