This comforting lentil baked ziti combines the hearty goodness of brown lentils with the classic flavors of ziti pasta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. It's a wholesome twist on a traditional favorite, perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option that packs well for leftovers.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, you may need to pick up brown lentils and cottage cheese if you don't already have them in your pantry. Make sure to grab part-skim mozzarella cheese for a balanced richness. Newman’s Own Organics marinara sauce can be found in the pasta sauce aisle.
Ingredients For Lentil Baked Ziti Recipe
Olive oil: Provides a rich, smooth base for sautéing the onions and garlic.
Red onion: Adds a mild yet distinct flavor and a splash of color to the dish.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with a deep, aromatic flavor.
Brown lentils: Adds protein and a hearty texture to the ziti.
Water: Used to cook the lentils until tender.
Whole grain ziti: A healthier pasta option that adds fiber to the dish.
Mozzarella cheese: Provides a melty, gooey topping essential for baked ziti.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of spice and depth to the flavor.
Red pepper flakes: Gives a hint of heat to the dish.
Marinara sauce: The base sauce that ties all the flavors together.
Cottage cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the dish.
Fresh basil leaves: Offers a fresh, aromatic finish to the baked ziti.
One reader, Fayette Chappell says:
This lentil baked ziti recipe is a delightful twist on a classic! The lentils add a hearty texture, and the blend of marinara and cheese creates a comforting, flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Techniques Required for Making Lentil Baked Ziti
How to cook lentils: Explanation on how to cook lentils, including simmering them until tender and draining them. How to cook pasta al dente: Explanation on how to cook pasta until it is firm to the bite, as per package directions. How to sauté onions and garlic: Explanation on how to cook onions until translucent and garlic until fragrant. How to assemble a baked pasta dish: Explanation on how to layer and combine ingredients in a baking dish. How to bake with foil: Explanation on how to cover a dish with aluminum foil without it touching the cheese. How to finish baking uncovered: Explanation on how to bake a dish uncovered to achieve a golden and spotty cheese topping.
How To Make Lentil Baked Ziti
Make your dinner meals more filling with our scrumptious baked ziti! It’s loaded with lentils and tasteful seasonings for a hearty dish.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Lentils:
- 1tbspolive oil
- 1red onionchopped
- ¼tspsalt
- 2garlic clovespressed or minced
- 1¼cupregular brown lentilspicked over for debris and rinsed
- 3cupswater
For Pasta:
Instructions
Lentils:
-
In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering.
-
Add the onion and salt.
-
Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is turning translucent.
-
Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Add the lentils and water, then stir to combine.
-
Raise the heat to high and bring the mixture to a simmer.
-
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then gently simmer for 30 to 40 minutes until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
-
Drain the mixture well in a fine-mesh sieve, then return the lentils to their pot. Set aside.
Pasta:
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
-
Cook the pasta just until al dente, according to package directions.
-
Drain and return the pasta to the pot.
-
Add the lentils to the pasta.
-
Add ½ cup of the cheese, then season to taste with salt, freshly ground black pepper and red pepper flakes.
-
Pour 1 cup of the marinara sauce into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
-
Spread the sauce around with a spatula to coat the dish.
-
Pour the lentil and pasta mixture into the baker, then spread until evenly distributed.
-
Add a dollop cottage cheese in big spoonfuls over the pasta, then just lightly swirl the mixture to distribute.
-
Drizzle the rest of the sauce evenly over the dish, then gently spread it over the pasta.
-
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella evenly over the dish.
-
Cover the baker tightly with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese.
-
Bake for 30 minutes.
-
Remove the covering, then increase the heat to 450 degrees F.
-
Continue baking for 3 to 9 minutes until the cheese on top is golden and spotty.
-
Remove the baking dish from the oven, then let cool for 10 minutes.
-
Sprinkle freshly torn basil on top, slice, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 405.26kcal
- Fat: 10.89g
- Saturated Fat: 5.31g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.58g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.84g
- Carbohydrates: 54.58g
- Fiber: 5.04g
- Sugar: 3.46g
- Protein: 22.49g
- Cholesterol: 30.01mg
- Sodium: 551.48mg
- Calcium: 217.60mg
- Potassium: 385.24mg
- Iron: 2.72mg
- Vitamin A: 68.37µg
- Vitamin C: 2.83mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Lentil Baked Ziti
To ensure your lentils cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor, make sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water before adding them to the pot. This removes any dust or debris and helps achieve a more consistent texture. Additionally, avoid adding salt to the water while cooking the lentils, as it can toughen their skins and prolong cooking time. Instead, season them after they are fully cooked.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Lentil Baked Ziti
Pre-cook the lentils: Cook the lentils in advance and store them in the fridge. This will save you time when assembling the dish.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella to cut down on prep time.
Ready-made marinara: Stick with store-bought marinara sauce like Newman’s Own Organics to avoid making sauce from scratch.
Batch cook pasta: Cook the pasta ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it quickly before mixing with the lentils and cheese.
One-pot method: Use the same pot for cooking the lentils and pasta to minimize cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Lentil Baked Ziti Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar texture and slightly milder flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of seasoning.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder per clove for a similar flavor.
regular brown lentils - Substitute with green lentils: Green lentils hold their shape well and have a similar cooking time.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds extra flavor to the lentils.
whole grain ziti - Substitute with whole grain penne: Penne has a similar shape and texture, making it a good alternative.
part-skim mozzarella cheese - Substitute with low-fat cheddar cheese: Low-fat cheddar provides a similar melt and flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar seasoning effect but with a different texture.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor.
red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level but is more finely ground.
newman’s own organics marinara - Substitute with any organic marinara sauce: Any organic marinara sauce will provide a similar flavor and consistency.
cottage cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar texture and mild flavor, making it a good alternative.
fresh basil leaves - Substitute with dried basil: Use 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh basil for a similar flavor.
Presenting Your Lentil Baked Ziti Dish
Serve in individual ramekins: Present the lentil baked ziti in elegant, single-serving ramekins to give each guest a personal and refined experience.
Layer with precision: Ensure that the layers of pasta, lentils, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce are distinct and evenly distributed for a visually appealing cross-section.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Finish each ramekin with a delicate sprig of freshly torn basil leaves to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle with olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the top to enhance the richness and add a glossy finish.
Use a microplane for cheese: Instead of large chunks, finely grate the remaining mozzarella cheese using a microplane for a delicate, lacy texture that melts beautifully.
Add a touch of red pepper flakes: Lightly sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a subtle hint of heat and a visually appealing contrast.
Serve with a side salad: Pair the dish with a simple, crisp side salad of mixed greens lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to balance the richness of the baked ziti.
Use a warm plate: Serve the ramekins on warm plates to keep the baked ziti at the perfect temperature throughout the meal.
Add a balsamic reduction: Drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction around the edge of the plate for an added layer of flavor and an elegant presentation.
Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt: Just before serving, add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance the flavors and provide a satisfying crunch.
Essential Tools for Making Lentil Baked Ziti
Large saucepan: Used for cooking the lentils with onions, garlic, and water.
Olive oil: Needed for sautéing the onion and garlic.
Fine-mesh sieve: Essential for draining the cooked lentils.
Large pot: Used for boiling the pasta.
13 x 9-inch baking dish: The dish in which the ziti will be baked.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the marinara sauce and mixing ingredients.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the baking dish while baking.
Oven: Required for baking the ziti.
Measuring cups: For measuring lentils, water, and cheese.
Knife: For chopping the red onion and garlic.
Cutting board: Surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
Wooden spoon: For stirring the lentils and pasta.
Colander: For draining the pasta.
Mixing bowl: Optional, for mixing pasta and lentils before transferring to the baking dish.
Cheese grater: If you need to grate the mozzarella cheese.
Oven mitts: For safely handling hot cookware.
Storing and Freezing Lentil Baked Ziti
Allow the lentil baked ziti to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled ziti to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For freezing, portion the cooled lentil baked ziti into individual servings or freeze the entire dish. Wrap the portions or dish securely in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen lentil baked ziti will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months. To extend its shelf life further, consider double-wrapping the dish or using a vacuum sealer to remove excess air.
To reheat refrigerated ziti, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a covered dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
For frozen lentil baked ziti, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating from frozen, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 1 hour, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up.
How To Reheat Lentil Baked Ziti Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lentil baked ziti in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and become golden brown.
For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a single serving of lentil baked ziti on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of lentil baked ziti. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a single serving of the dish on a toaster oven-safe tray. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover lentil baked ziti in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or marinara sauce to prevent the dish from drying out. Cover the saucepan and heat the dish for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat individual portions of lentil baked ziti. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a single serving of the dish in the air fryer basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Interesting Fact About Lentil Baked Ziti
A unique aspect of this lentil baked ziti recipe is its use of cottage cheese instead of the traditional ricotta. This substitution not only adds a creamy texture but also boosts the protein content, making the dish more nutritious.
Is Making Lentil Baked Ziti Cost-Effective?
This lentil baked ziti recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using affordable ingredients like brown lentils, whole grain ziti, and cottage cheese, it provides a nutritious and filling meal. The use of part-skim mozzarella and marinara sauce adds flavor without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.
Is Lentil Baked Ziti Healthy or Unhealthy?
This lentil baked ziti recipe is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish. Here's why:
- Whole grain ziti is used instead of regular pasta, providing more fiber and nutrients
- Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron
- Part-skim mozzarella and cottage cheese are used, reducing the overall fat content
- The recipe relies on a store-bought marinara sauce, which can be a good option if you choose a low-sodium, low-sugar variety
However, there are a few ways to make this recipe even healthier:
- Increase the vegetable content by adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the lentil and pasta mixture
- Use a homemade marinara sauce to have better control over the sodium and sugar content
- Opt for low-fat cottage cheese to further reduce the fat content
- Experiment with different types of lentils, such as green or red, for variety in texture and flavor
- Reduce the amount of cheese used and sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top for a cheesy flavor with added B vitamins
By making these small adjustments, you can boost the nutritional value of this already healthy and delicious meal. The combination of whole grains, lean protein, and vegetables makes this lentil baked ziti a well-rounded and satisfying dish that you can feel good about serving to your family and friends.
Editor's Opinion on This Lentil Baked Ziti Recipe
This lentil baked ziti recipe is a delightful fusion of hearty lentils and classic Italian comfort food. The use of whole grain ziti and part-skim mozzarella makes it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The lentils add a robust, earthy depth, while the cottage cheese provides a creamy texture that complements the marinara sauce beautifully. Fresh basil at the end adds a burst of freshness. Overall, it's a well-balanced, nutritious dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Enhance Your Lentil Baked Ziti Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes Similar to Lentil Baked Ziti
Appetizer and Dessert Suggestions for Lentil Baked Ziti
Why trust this Lentil Baked Ziti Recipe:
This lentil baked ziti recipe is a wholesome twist on a classic comfort dish, combining the hearty goodness of brown lentils with the rich flavors of Newman’s Own Organics marinara. The use of whole grain ziti and part-skim mozzarella cheese ensures a healthier option without compromising on taste. The addition of fresh basil leaves adds a burst of freshness, making this dish both nutritious and delicious. Trust this recipe for its balanced ingredients and straightforward instructions, perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Baked Ziti Recipe
Gluten-Free Baked Ziti Recipe
Sbarro’s Baked Ziti Recipe
Debra’s Baked Ziti Recipe
Creamy Baked Ziti Recipe
Meatless Baked Ziti Recipe
Easy Baked Ziti Recipe
Baked Ziti Recipe
Pizza Baked Ziti Recipe
Skillet Baked Ziti Recipe
5-Ingredient Italian Sausage and Kale Baked Ziti Recipe
