Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese, baked to perfection. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
This recipe is simple and can be customized with various ingredients like vegetables or different types of cheese to suit your taste.
Understanding Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a beloved dish that brings together the comforting elements of pasta, cheese, and rich marinara sauce.
This Italian-American classic is often a staple at family gatherings and casual dinners, offering a hearty meal that pleases a crowd.
With its layers of flavor and texture, baked ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes warmth and togetherness.
Key Ingredients for Flavor
The magic of baked ziti lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Ziti pasta serves as the foundation, providing a sturdy base that holds the sauce and cheese beautifully.
Marinara sauce adds a tangy richness, while a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a creamy, cheesy topping that melts to perfection in the oven.
Seasoning, such as Italian herbs, enhances the overall taste, making each bite a delightful experience.
Preparation Steps
Preparing baked ziti is straightforward and can be done in just a few steps.
Start by cooking the ziti until al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite for the baking process.
Next, mix the ricotta cheese with an egg and seasonings to create a smooth filling.
Combining this with the pasta and marinara sauce results in a rich mixture ready for baking.
Baking to Perfection
The baking process is where the magic happens.
Covering the dish with foil initially traps steam, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
After a short bake, removing the foil allows the cheese to brown and bubble, creating a golden crust that is simply irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile with its aromatic notes.
Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread, making it a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Nutrition and Variations
This dish serves about six people, making it an excellent choice for family meals or gatherings.
With approximately 400 calories per serving, it offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats.
For those looking to customize, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or experimenting with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Easy Baked Ziti Recipe
This baked ziti features ziti pasta mixed with marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all baked until bubbly and golden. The dish takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 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, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir in the ricotta mixture until well combined.
- Top with Cheese: Spread the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture.
- 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 bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g