There’s just something magical about a bubbling baked ziti dish coming out of the oven as the crisp fall air sets in. It’s warm, hearty, and full of comfort the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. This Gluten Free Baked Ziti (Dairy-Free Option) is one of those go-to recipes my readers return to every year when the leaves start to change. Whether you’re gluten-intolerant, dairy-free, or just love a nourishing pasta bake that actually tastes like Sunday dinner at Nonna’s, this one’s for you.
Made with simple pantry staples, a velvety tomato sauce, and your choice of dairy-free cheese, it checks all the boxes: satisfying, easy to prep ahead, and crowd-pleasing. Let’s walk through the ingredients, steps, variations, and some handy tips so your gluten free baked ziti turns out perfectly every single time.
Gluten Free Baked Ziti (Dairy-Free Option)
Equipment
- large pot
- colander
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb gluten-free ziti or penne (brown rice or quinoa-based pasta)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles)
- 24 oz jar of tomato basil marinara sauce (no added sugar)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup unsweetened dairy-free ricotta-style cheese (almond or tofu-based)
- 1 cup dairy-free shredded mozzarella (coconut or cashew-based)
- fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook your gluten-free pasta in salted water for 1–2 minutes less than package instructions. You want it al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground meat and brown until fully cooked. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the dairy-free ricotta substitute.
- Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the dairy-free mozzarella on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredients for Gluten Free Baked Ziti (Dairy-Free Option)
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this comforting casserole:
- 1 pound gluten-free ziti or penne (brown rice or quinoa-based pasta works great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles for a vegan option)
- 1 (24 oz) jar of tomato basil marinara sauce (look for one with no added sugar)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup unsweetened dairy-free ricotta-style cheese (almond or tofu-based)
- 1 cup dairy-free shredded mozzarella (coconut or cashew-based)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
📝 Related recipe you’ll also love: Easy Gluten-Free Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
This baked ziti comes together in just a few easy steps. It’s beginner-friendly but tastes like a dish that took hours to make.
1. Boil the pasta
Cook your gluten-free pasta in salted water for 1–2 minutes less than package instructions. You want it al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent (about 5 minutes), then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground meat and brown until fully cooked. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to deepen the flavor.
3. Mix the ziti
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Gently fold in the dairy-free ricotta substitute.
4. Assemble the casserole
Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the dairy-free mozzarella on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese.
5. Bake and serve
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Looking for a similar cozy recipe? Try this reader-favorite: Gluten-Free Lasagna Soup
Tips for Success
Choose the right pasta
Stick with sturdy gluten-free pasta like brown rice, quinoa, or lentil-based ziti. Avoid corn-only blends that can turn mushy.
Undercook the pasta
Because it bakes later, draining it early keeps your final dish from becoming soggy.
Use high-quality marinara
A good marinara sauce makes a big difference. Choose one with minimal ingredients and rich flavor.
Rest before serving
Let the baked ziti sit for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. It sets up beautifully and slices more cleanly.
Want more comfort food that’s gluten free and quick? Check out Easy Gluten-Free Dinner Recipes
Possible Variations
Add veggies
Fold in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Make it vegan
Use plant-based meat, almond ricotta, and cashew mozzarella to make it entirely dairy-free and meatless.
Make it spicy
Add chopped Calabrian chilies or more red pepper flakes for heat lovers.
Change the protein
Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or even chickpeas.
If you enjoy this recipe, you’ll probably also like Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken (Gluten-Free)
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of water or extra sauce.
Freezer
Freeze fully assembled, unbaked ziti covered tightly for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45–50 minutes.
Meal Prep Tip
You can prep all components a day ahead cook the meat sauce, boil the pasta, and assemble it. Then bake fresh when ready to eat.
This also makes a great dish to serve alongside Gluten-Free Pizza Rolls for a casual game night or family dinner.
FAQs
Can I make gluten free baked ziti without dairy-free cheese?
Absolutely. While dairy-free cheese adds that classic melty top, you can leave it out or use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for umami flavor.
What’s the best gluten-free pasta for baked ziti?
Brown rice pasta holds its shape well. Lentil or quinoa pasta also works but be careful not to overcook it before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I add vegetables to the baked ziti?
Definitely. Chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms are great additions. Just sauté them first to avoid excess moisture.
For another comforting family meal, try this: Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Pizza
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Baked Ziti (Dairy-Free Option) proves that cozy, carb-filled comfort food doesn’t need gluten or dairy to shine. Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner, a casual get-together, or meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s the kind of meal that never lets you down. Serve it alongside a simple salad or some roasted veggies, and you’ve got a dinner that warms the soul gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of love.