Indulging in a plate of Baked Ziti feels like receiving a warm hug from your favorite sweater on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your fork into layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese that stretches with every bite. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation for family and friends to gather around the table. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Baked Ziti
- How to Make Baked Ziti
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is Baked Ziti?
- How do I make Baked Ziti vegetarian?
- Can I prepare Baked Ziti in advance?
- What are some good side dishes for Baked Ziti?
- Conclusion for Baked Ziti:
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of Sunday dinners at my grandma’s house where laughter echoed, and seconds were mandatory. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a festive gathering, Baked Ziti never fails to impress. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor explosion that will leave you wishing for just one more bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Ziti recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile balances savory tomato sauce with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella.
- Its vibrant layers create an eye-catching dish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Suitable for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers all week long!
Ingredients for Baked Ziti
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: Choose large ziti pasta; its hollow shape holds sauce perfectly.
- Marinara Sauce: Opt for your favorite store-bought brand or homemade for the best flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese: Use whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it adds richness to each layer.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully; feel free to add extra for cheesy goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor and gives a golden crust on top.
- Egg: A beaten egg helps bind the ricotta mixture together, making it creamy yet sturdy.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano adds depth to the sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Ziti
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab your favorite baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray so that our cheesy masterpiece won’t stick!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, ensuring you don’t let those little beauties overcook!
Step 3: Mix the Cheeses
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well blended. Trust me; this cheesy concoction is pure magic.
Step 4: Layer It Up
Start layering in your baking dish: spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ziti. Top with half of the ricotta mixture and sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before adding another layer of marinara sauce.
Step 5: Finish Strong
Repeat layering with the remaining ziti and ricotta mixture. Finish off with more marinara sauce on top and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese along with some Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake!
Cover your dish with aluminum foil (to prevent burning) and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil during the last ten minutes so that glorious cheese can bubble up nicely!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it—your comforting plate of Baked Ziti is ready! Perfectly layered, cheesy deliciousness awaits you at dinner time. Enjoy every mouthful while reminiscing about those family gatherings filled with love (and maybe a little chaos).
You Must Know
- This delicious Baked Ziti offers more than just comfort; it’s a crowd-pleaser that makes weeknight dinners feel like special occasions.
- With its cheesy goodness and hearty flavors, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.
- Customize it easily based on your pantry staples!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then prepare the sauce while it cooks. Brown the meat if using, add your favorite marinara, and mix in those herbs! Combine everything with ricotta and mozzarella before layering it in the baking dish for optimal cheesy goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the meat for veggies to make a vegetarian version of this Baked Ziti. You can also mix in different cheeses, like parmesan or gouda, and throw in some spicy Italian sausage for a kick. Make it yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warm and bubbly, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal on busy days.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality cheese for maximum flavor and creaminess; trust me, your taste buds will thank you later.
- Let the ziti rest for at least 10 minutes after baking to set up nicely.
- A sprinkle of fresh basil on top just before serving elevates the presentation!
Sometimes I think my family might love Baked Ziti more than they love me! It’s their go-to request during family gatherings—nothing brings them together like a big plate of cheesy pasta bliss!
FAQs:
What is Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that features ziti pasta baked with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and often ground meat or vegetables. This hearty meal is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The layers of pasta and cheese create a comforting and satisfying experience, making it a popular choice for family dinners and gatherings.
How do I make Baked Ziti vegetarian?
To make a delicious vegetarian version of Baked Ziti, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables. You can include ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. spinach mushroom orzo Use the same layers of pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella to maintain the dish’s rich flavor while catering to vegetarian preferences.
Can I prepare Baked Ziti in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Ziti in advance! Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to achieve a golden cheesy topping.
What are some good side dishes for Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness. Garlic bread is another favorite that helps soak up any extra sauce. Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli provide a nutritious balance without overwhelming the main dish.
Conclusion for Baked Ziti:
Baked Ziti is a versatile and comforting meal that appeals to many tastes. Its combination of pasta, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses makes it an inviting choice for any occasion. Whether you opt for a traditional meat version or a hearty vegetarian alternative, this dish promises satisfaction. Mediterranean chicken pasta salad creamy chicken fettuccine alfredo With the option to prepare it in advance, Baked Ziti is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. Cajun cream cheese pasta bake Enjoy this classic recipe with your loved ones!
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Ziti
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Baked Ziti is a beloved Italian-American dish that brings together layers of perfectly cooked ziti pasta, savory marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella for an unforgettable meal. This comforting casserole is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights, making it a go-to recipe for feeding a crowd. Each bite delivers rich flavors and cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half of the marinara sauce in the baking dish, followed by half of the cooked ziti, half of the ricotta mixture, and some Parmesan. Repeat layers and top with remaining sauce and cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover for the last 10 minutes to allow cheese to brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
