This baked five cheese ziti is a rich and indulgent pasta dish that combines the flavors of five different cheeses with ziti pasta, creating a creamy and satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to please cheese lovers.
The preparation is straightforward, and it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Overview of Baked Five Cheese Ziti
Baked five cheese ziti is a delightful pasta dish that brings together the richness of five different cheeses, creating a creamy and satisfying experience. This dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, appealing to those who appreciate the indulgence of cheese.
The combination of ziti pasta and a robust marinara sauce enhances the flavors, making it a comforting meal that warms the heart. With its bubbling, golden cheese topping, this dish not only tastes great but also presents beautifully.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The magic of baked five cheese ziti lies in its ingredients. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, gouda, and goat cheese creates a harmonious flavor profile that is both rich and creamy. Each cheese contributes its unique texture and taste, elevating the overall dish.
Alongside the cheeses, the ziti pasta serves as the perfect vessel, holding onto the marinara sauce and cheese mixture. Fresh basil adds a touch of brightness, while optional breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch on top.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing baked five cheese ziti is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The process begins with cooking the ziti pasta until it reaches the ideal al dente texture. This step is crucial, as it ensures the pasta holds up during baking.
Next, mixing the cheese filling is a breeze. Combining the cheeses with garlic powder and onion powder creates a flavorful base that complements the pasta and sauce. Once everything is mixed, the assembly of the dish is quick, allowing you to get it into the oven in no time.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the ziti is where the magic happens. As it cooks, the cheese melts and bubbles, creating a golden crust that is simply irresistible. The aroma that fills the kitchen during this time is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
After about 25-30 minutes in the oven, the dish is ready to be taken out. A brief cooling period allows the flavors to settle, making it easier to serve. Garnishing with additional basil just before serving adds a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
Baked five cheese ziti is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. A simple green salad or garlic bread complements the richness of the pasta, providing a nice balance to the meal.
This dish is also perfect for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, allowing for easy reheating throughout the week. Whether serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to impress.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of baked five cheese ziti contains approximately 450 calories, making it a hearty meal option. With 20 grams of protein and 22 grams of fat, it provides a satisfying balance of macronutrients.
While indulgent, this dish can be enjoyed in moderation, especially when paired with lighter sides. Its rich flavors and comforting nature make it a beloved choice for cheese enthusiasts everywhere.
Delicious Baked Five Cheese Ziti
This dish features ziti pasta mixed with a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, gouda, and goat cheese, all baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional for topping
- 2 tablespoons olive oil optional for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, parmesan, gouda, goat cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large pot, mix the cooked ziti with marinara sauce and chopped basil. Add the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs, if using.
- Bake: Drizzle with olive oil if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g