Description
A wholesome twist on the classic baked ziti, this Lentil Baked Ziti combines tender pasta, protein-rich lentils, rich marinara, and gooey cheese for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s easy to make and customize.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
¼ teaspoon salt
2 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 ¼ cups brown lentils, cleaned and sorted to remove any debris
3 cups water
12 ounces whole grain ziti, rigatoni, or penne pasta
8 ounces (about 2 packed cups) part-skim mozzarella cheese, grated and divided
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
23.5 ounces marinara sauce, with an optional extra cup for a richer, saucier bake
1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese
Fresh basil leaves, torn, for garnish
Instructions
-
Cook the Lentils
Warm olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until it begins to shimmer. Add the chopped onion and salt, cooking for about 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add lentils and water, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 30–40 minutes until tender. Drain well and return to the pot. -
Cook the Pasta
Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large pot of salted water, cook pasta just until al dente. Drain and return to the pot. -
Combine Lentils and Pasta
Add lentils to pasta, along with ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). -
Assemble the Ziti
Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish. Add pasta-lentil mixture. Spoon cottage cheese over the top in generous dollops, then gently swirl to create creamy pockets. -
Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the remaining marinara over the top, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese. -
Bake
Cover tightly with foil (avoid touching the cheese) or tent with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove cover, raise oven temperature to 450°F, and bake an additional 3–9 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. -
Cool and Serve
Allow the baked ziti to cool for 10 minutes, then top with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Use canned lentils for convenience—drain and rinse before adding.
Make it gluten-free with sturdy gluten-free pasta.
Add sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate or freeze before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: ~350
- Sugar: ~6g
- Carbohydrates: ~48g
- Protein: ~20g