Baked ziti is a comforting Italian-American dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese for a satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, as it can be made ahead and reheated.
With layers of ziti pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce, this dish is both hearty and flavorful. It’s a great option for family gatherings or potlucks.
What Makes Baked Ziti Special
Baked ziti stands out as a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine, celebrated for its comforting layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese.
This dish is not just about flavor; it’s also about the joy of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones.
Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner, baked ziti brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, making it a go-to choice for many occasions.
Ingredients That Create Magic
The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Key components include ziti pasta, which provides a sturdy base, and a blend of cheeses that melt beautifully.
Ricotta adds creaminess, while mozzarella offers that perfect stretch.
Marinara sauce, rich in flavor, ties everything together, creating a delicious harmony that is hard to resist.
Preparation Steps to Perfection
Preparing baked ziti is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps.
Start by cooking the pasta until it’s al dente, ensuring it retains some bite.
Next, mix the cheese filling, which combines ricotta, mozzarella, and seasonings for a burst of flavor.
Layering is key: begin with marinara sauce, followed by pasta and cheese, repeating until all ingredients are used.
Baking for the Perfect Finish
Baking is where the magic happens.
Cover the dish with foil initially to allow the flavors to meld, then uncover it to let the cheese bubble and turn golden.
This final step creates a delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers beneath.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing baked ziti with garlic bread and a side salad enhances the meal, making it even more enjoyable.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Baked ziti is perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
This dish retains its deliciousness, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
Hearty Baked Ziti Recipe
This baked ziti recipe serves 8 and features al dente pasta mixed with a rich marinara sauce and creamy ricotta, topped with melted mozzarella. The preparation time is about 20 minutes, and it bakes for 30 minutes, making it a convenient choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 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, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti and ricotta mixture. Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g