This baked ziti casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines ziti pasta with a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese for a delicious meal.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared in advance, making it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Overview of Baked Ziti Casserole
This baked ziti casserole is a warm and satisfying dish that brings comfort to any table.
With layers of ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, it’s a meal that delights the senses.
The bubbling mozzarella on top adds a golden finish, making it visually appealing and inviting.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The combination of ingredients in this casserole creates a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ziti pasta serves as the backbone of the dish, providing a hearty base that holds everything together.
The marinara sauce adds a tangy richness, while the ricotta cheese introduces a creamy texture that complements the other components.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this casserole is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Start by cooking the ziti until it’s al dente, ensuring it retains a slight bite.
Next, mix the ricotta with an egg and Italian seasoning to create a flavorful filling that enhances the overall taste.
Layering for Perfection
Layering is key to achieving the perfect baked ziti.
Begin with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish, followed by half of the cooked ziti.
Add half of the ricotta mixture and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese before repeating the layers. This method ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Once layered, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it to allow the flavors to meld.
After the initial baking time, removing the foil lets the cheese bubble and turn golden brown, creating an irresistible crust.
The aroma that fills the kitchen during baking is sure to whet appetites.
Serving Suggestions
Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.
Garnishing with fresh basil adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
Serve it hot, perhaps with a side salad or garlic bread, for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
Delicious Baked Ziti Casserole
This baked ziti features layers of cooked pasta mixed with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella, all baked until bubbly and golden. The dish takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces 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 well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with marinara sauce and remaining mozzarella 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 casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g