Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and reserve.

In the meantime, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Once hot, sauté the onion for about 3 minutes or until tender and translucent.

Then, sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, until aromatic.

Cook the vegan ground beef for about 4 minutes, stirring continuously to promote even browning.

Next, stir in the marinara sauce and continue to simmer, partially covered, until your sauce has thickened slightly. Sprinkle with spices and stir to combine.

Place the cashews in the bowl of your food processor or high-speed blender.

Add in the remaining ingredients for vegan Mozzarella sauce and blend until everything is well incorporated.

To assemble baked ziti, grease the inside of a casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon a ladle full of the “meaty” sauce into the dish; spread it across the bottom of the dish.

Add 1/2 of the cooked ziti, then 1/2 of the sauce on top. Gently toss to combine. Spoon 1/2 of the cheese sauce. Repeat layers one more time. Top with vegan mozzarella.

Bon appétit!