Baked Ziti is like a warm hug in a casserole dish, bursting with cheesy goodness, zesty marinara, and perfectly cooked pasta. The aroma of bubbling cheese wafting through your kitchen can make even the grumpiest cat purr with delight. Picture this: you crack open the oven door to reveal a golden-brown layer of melted cheese, glistening like a treasure waiting to be discovered. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to gather everyone around the table for a feast.
Every time I make Baked Ziti, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up her legendary version while regaling us with tales of her Italian adventures. The smell of simmering sauce blended with ricotta and mozzarella was never just a meal; it was an event! Whether celebrating birthdays, holidays, or just surviving another Monday, my family knew that Baked Ziti was our go-to comfort food – always reliable and deliciously satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Baked Ziti recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavor profile combines tangy marinara with creamy cheeses for an unforgettable taste
- Visually, it’s an absolute showstopper with its golden cheese topping and colorful herbs
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion from cozy dinners to potlucks!
Ingredients for Baked Ziti
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ziti Pasta: Use about 1 pound of ziti or penne pasta; they hold the sauce beautifully.
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Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought or homemade sauce will enhance the flavor; aim for about 4 cups.
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Ricotta Cheese: About 15 ounces adds creaminess; opt for whole milk ricotta for richer flavor.
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Mozzarella Cheese: Two cups of shredded mozzarella create that gooey texture we all love.
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Parmesan Cheese: Around one cup grated adds depth to the flavor (and makes everything fancy).
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Egg: One large egg binds the ricotta mixture together—no one likes loose cheese!
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Garlic Powder: Use about one teaspoon to add a bit of magic without chopping any cloves.
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Italian Seasoning: About two teaspoons brings all those delicious herb flavors together.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to taste—don’t forget to adjust based on your preferences!
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). This ensures your Baked Ziti cooks evenly and gets that beautiful bubbly top we all crave!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse—let that starch cling on!
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed—it should feel like you’re creating something magical!
Step 4: Layer It Up
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a large baking dish. Then add half of the ziti pasta. Top it with half of your cheesy mixture and another layer of marinara sauce.
Step 5: Repeat
Add the remaining ziti over the top followed by more ricotta mixture and marinara sauce. Finally, sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top like confetti on New Year’s Eve!
Step 6: Bake Away
Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking) and bake in preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle any leftover marinara sauce on top for the perfect finishing touch.
And there you have it! A flavorful Baked Ziti that brings joy not just through taste but also through memories shared around the dinner table. So grab your fork and get ready for seconds—because trust me; you’ll want them!
You Must Know
- Baked ziti is more than just a comforting pasta dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings people together
- The layers of cheesy goodness and rich sauce create a perfect harmony of flavors, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente while you simmer the rich marinara sauce. Then, layer your baked ziti with cheese and sauce before letting it bake to perfection. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and retains maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your taste buds! Add some spicy sausage or roasted vegetables for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different cheeses or even throw in some spinach for a healthier twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, cover it with foil in the oven to keep it moist, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for richer flavor, like mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan
- Don’t skip the al dente step; overcooked pasta turns mushy
- Finally, let your baked ziti rest before serving so the layers set beautifully
There was that one time I made baked ziti for a potluck, and people practically fought over the last spoonful. It felt amazing to see everyone enjoying my cooking—it was like I had won the culinary lottery! For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.
FAQs :
What is Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that consists of pasta, marinara sauce, and a mix of cheeses. Typically, ziti pasta is layered with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese before being baked to perfection. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a favorite among many. You can also customize your Baked Ziti by adding vegetables or meats according to your preference.
How long does it take to prepare Baked Ziti?
Preparing Baked Ziti typically takes about 15 minutes, while the baking process requires an additional 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your oven. Overall, you can expect the entire dish to be ready in under an hour. If you plan ahead and have all your ingredients ready, you’ll find that making this delicious meal is quick and straightforward. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Baked Ziti ahead of time! Prepare the dish up to the point just before baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to two days or freeze it for longer storage. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and add some extra baking time if needed. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
What can I serve with Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Consider serving a light salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also excellent accompaniments for dipping into the marinara sauce. For a heartier meal, you could even serve steamed vegetables or sautéed greens alongside your Baked Ziti for added nutrition and color on the plate.
Conclusion for Baked Ziti :
Baked Ziti is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying with its layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. Whether you opt for traditional recipes or customize them with your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Best of all, it can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy families or gatherings. Enjoy making this delicious meal that brings comfort and joy to every occasion! For more inspiration, check out this more main dish recipes recipe.
Baked Ziti
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Baked Ziti is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses. This comforting casserole is perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights, delivering delicious flavors and nostalgia in every bite. With its gooey cheese topping and vibrant colors, Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone to the table for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a baking dish, layer a thin layer of marinara sauce followed by half of the ziti. Top with half of the cheese mixture and more marinara.
- Repeat layers with the remaining ziti and cheese mixture. Finish with remaining marinara and mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Add cooked sausage or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor. For a lighter version, substitute whole milk ricotta with part-skim ricotta. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.