Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF.
2. Cook ziti according to package directions. Drain.
3. Make the sauce. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add oil. When hot, add onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring, until lightly browned. Add garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring. Add vegan beef crumbles; cook, stirring, until thawed (if frozen) and heated through. Add diced tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, pepper, and water. Stir. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Add cooked pasta; stir to combine.
4. Meanwhile, make the cheese. To a blender, add all cheese ingredients. Blend until completely smooth. Add cheese sauce to a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring consistently, for 5-7 minutes. The sauce will transform into a thick, gooey cheese. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble the baked ziti. To a 9×13 baking dish, add half of ziti and red sauce mixture. Top with dollops of half the cheese mixture. Repeat.
6. Cover lightly with foil. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake for 15 minutes. Broil on high for 1-2 minutes until cheese is lightly browned.
7. If desired, top with chopped parsley, vegan parmesan, and red pepper flakes.