Description
A comforting family favorite, Baked Ziti features layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, creating a dish that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Optional: sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers
Instructions
- Boil the Ziti: Cook the ziti according to the package directions until al dente.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix it Up: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and optional sautéed vegetables. Pour in the marinara sauce and mix well.
- Layer it Out: Spread half of the pasta mixture in a greased baking dish, layer with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan, then add the rest of the pasta on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving and garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
For a creamier version, swap marinara for Alfredo sauce. Ensure to sauté veggies first to avoid a soggy dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Baked Ziti, Italian pasta, family recipe, comfort food, cheesy pasta