This baked three cheese ziti is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of three delicious cheeses. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Overview of Baked Three Cheese Ziti
Baked three cheese ziti is a classic Italian dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
This delightful meal combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich marinara sauce and a trio of cheeses that melt beautifully together.
Ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish promises to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Ziti pasta serves as the base, providing a hearty texture that holds up well to the sauce and cheese.
The blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan not only adds depth of flavor but also creates a creamy, indulgent experience.
Seasonings like garlic powder and Italian herbs enhance the overall taste, while fresh basil or parsley adds a touch of color and freshness when garnished.
Preparation Steps for Success
Preparing baked three cheese ziti is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Start by cooking the ziti until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, ensuring it retains a slight bite even after baking.
Mixing the cheeses with an egg and seasonings creates a rich filling that complements the pasta beautifully.
Layering is key: alternate between the pasta and cheese mixture in a greased baking dish to achieve that delightful gooeyness in every bite.
Covering the dish while baking helps the cheese melt evenly, while removing the foil towards the end allows for that golden, bubbly top.
Cooking Time and Serving Suggestions
This dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking, making it a relatively quick option for a hearty meal.
Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld together.
This ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Nutrition and Serving Size
Each serving of baked three cheese ziti offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat, making it a fulfilling main course.
With approximately 450 calories per serving, it’s a satisfying option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
This recipe serves about six, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
Creating the Perfect Atmosphere
The rustic kitchen setting enhances the charm of this dish.
Imagine a warm, inviting space filled with the aroma of baked pasta, where family and friends gather around the table.
A wooden spoon resting beside the bubbling dish adds a touch of homeliness, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy a comforting meal together.
Delicious Baked Three Cheese Ziti
This ziti features al dente pasta mixed with a rich marinara sauce and a blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheeses. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, serving about 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 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.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti and marinara sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Dish: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture. Spoon the cheese filling over the pasta, then top with the remaining ziti mixture. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 50g