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- 12 ounces ziti pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 medium carrot, finely grated - 1 medium zucchini, finely grated - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 24 ounces marinara sauce - 2 cups ricotta cheese - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - Salt and pepper to taste

Easy Baked Ziti with Hidden Veggies

Discover the joy of making Baked Ziti Surprise, a comforting twist on a classic favorite! This delicious dish combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, and loads of gooey cheese, but with a nutritious secret: hidden veggies! Perfect for families, especially those with picky eaters, this recipe sneaks essential nutrients into a mouthwatering meal. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a wholesome and satisfying dinner that everyone will love, without even realizing they're eating their veggies!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 carrot, grated

1 zucchini, grated

1 red bell pepper, finely diced

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chopped onion for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Add Hidden Veggies: Stir in the grated carrot, zucchini, and diced red bell pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender.

          Make the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

            Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

              Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the vegetable tomato sauce until well coated.

                Layering the Dish: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Then, dollop the ricotta cheese mixture over the top. Spread the remaining ziti mixture on top of the ricotta.

                  Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the ziti.

                    Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                      Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your hidden veggie surprise!

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 55 min | 6 servings