This four cheese baked ziti is a rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, and gorgonzola. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be prepared in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Overview of Four Cheese Baked Ziti
This delightful baked ziti is a comforting dish that showcases a harmonious blend of four cheeses: mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, and gorgonzola.
Each cheese contributes its unique flavor and texture, creating a rich and satisfying experience.
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
With its creamy cheese filling and robust marinara sauce, it embodies the essence of Italian comfort food.
Preparation Steps
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture.
Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the cheese mixture.
In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and gorgonzola cheeses with an egg, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix until everything is well incorporated, ensuring a creamy consistency that will envelop the pasta beautifully.
Combining Ingredients
In a spacious baking dish, combine the cooked ziti with marinara sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
Next, gently fold in the cheese mixture, ensuring that every piece of pasta is surrounded by that luscious cheese blend.
Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, and for an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking the Dish
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
Bake for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
After this initial baking time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time will be irresistible!
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
This brief resting period allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve.
For a fresh touch, garnish with vibrant basil leaves, adding a pop of color and flavor.
Serve hot, and watch as everyone digs into this cheesy, comforting meal.
Nutritional Information
This baked ziti serves 6-8 people, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, with 22g of fat and 20g of protein.
With 45g of carbohydrates, it provides a hearty meal that is both satisfying and filling.
Enjoy this dish knowing it not only tastes great but also provides a balanced meal for you and your loved ones.
Delicious Four Cheese Baked Ziti
This baked ziti features al dente pasta mixed with a creamy cheese blend and marinara sauce, then topped with more cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. The dish takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil 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 the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, gorgonzola cheese, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large baking dish, mix the cooked ziti with marinara sauce. Add the cheese mixture and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Top with Cheese: Spread the pasta mixture evenly in the baking dish. Sprinkle additional mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g