Ingredients
Scale
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and marinara sauce until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Ensure the butternut squash is diced evenly for consistent roasting. Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg for flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: baked ziti, butternut squash, pasta recipes, vegetarian comfort food, family dinners