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
Scale
- 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.