This baked ziti recipe offers a delicious alternative for those who prefer to skip ricotta cheese. It’s a comforting dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses, baked to perfection.
The recipe is simple and perfect for weeknight dinners, providing a satisfying meal that can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.
Overview of Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table.
With its layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight meals.
The absence of ricotta cheese in this version makes it a lighter alternative while still delivering on flavor and texture.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients.
Key components include ziti pasta, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend of flavors, from the tangy sauce to the gooey cheese topping.
Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, add a pop of color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation and taste of the dish.
Preparation Steps
Preparing baked ziti is straightforward and can be accomplished in just a few steps.
Start by cooking the ziti pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture.
Mix it with marinara sauce and seasonings, then layer it with cheese in a baking dish.
Once assembled, the dish is baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust that is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti is best served hot, straight from the oven.
Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complement the meal.
For a touch of elegance, garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.
This dish is not only visually appealing but also satisfying, making it a go-to for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
The flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making leftovers a delightful option.
Nutritional Information
This baked ziti recipe serves six and offers a balanced meal option.
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with a good mix of carbohydrates and protein.
It’s a hearty dish that satisfies without overwhelming the palate, making it a favorite among many.
Easy Baked Ziti Recipe without Ricotta
This baked ziti features cooked ziti pasta mixed with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. The dish takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
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 Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g