There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of baked ziti wafting through your kitchen. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Imagine layers of pasta mingling with a rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, creating a meal that warms both the heart and the belly.
What I love about this baked ziti recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether that’s adding ground meat, sautéed vegetables, or even a sprinkling of fresh herbs. It’s a dish that invites creativity while still tasting like a classic Italian feast.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious baked ziti that comes together effortlessly. It’s comfort food at its finest, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a special occasion.
Delicious Baked Ziti Recipe
This classic baked ziti features pasta baked to perfection in a savory marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. It’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among pasta lovers.
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
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Dish: In a large 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 sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining marinara sauce and a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking 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: Allow the baked ziti to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
