Looking for a comforting pasta dish that brings everyone together? This baked ziti is a fantastic choice! It’s layered with rich marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, making it a beloved meal for families and friends alike.
Imagine a bubbling casserole fresh from the oven, with melted mozzarella stretching as you serve it up. This dish is not only delicious but is also easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Baked Ziti
Baked ziti stands out as a quintessential comfort food, renowned for its satisfying combination of pasta and cheese. This dish unites layers of al dente ziti, rich marinara sauce, and a delightful blend of ricotta and mozzarella, all baked to perfection.
The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Every layer brings something special to the table, ensuring that each bite is a creamy, savory experience. The golden, bubbling crust on top is a tempting invitation to dig in.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to an exceptional baked ziti is the quality of its ingredients. Opt for a good marinara sauce to enhance the overall flavor profile. Combining ricotta cheese with mozzarella creates a creamy texture that perfectly complements the pasta.
Don’t forget the Italian seasoning! This blend adds aromatic depth, elevating the dish from ordinary to extraordinary. A sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving not only enhances the presentation but also contributes a fresh burst of flavor.
A Cozy Cooking Experience
Preparing baked ziti can be a delightful experience. Start by cooking the pasta until it reaches al dente perfection, ensuring it holds up well during baking. As the pasta cooks, you can mix the cheesy filling, creating an enticing aroma in your kitchen.
Assembling the layers is where the fun begins. Alternate between marinara sauce, ziti, and cheese filling to create a visually appealing dish. The anticipation builds as you prepare to bake this hearty casserole.
The Baking Process
Once assembled, cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it bake. The foil helps steam the pasta, keeping it moist while the cheese melts. After the initial baking time, removing the foil allows the cheese to turn beautifully golden brown.
The sight of bubbling cheese is hard to resist. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving, giving it time to set, which makes for easier serving. Each scoop reveals gooey strands of cheese that stretch enticingly.
Perfect for Sharing
Baked ziti is best enjoyed in good company. It is a dish that brings people together, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Serve it straight from a rustic ceramic baking dish for a homey touch.
Pair this hearty meal with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete dining experience. The combination of flavors and textures creates a comforting atmosphere, perfect for long conversations and laughter around the table.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Baked ziti keeps well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily. Just cover it and pop it in the oven or microwave, and it will taste almost as good as freshly baked.
This dish can even be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake it. It’s a practical option for busy weeknights or meal prep, ensuring that delicious comfort food is always within reach.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Baked Ziti
This baked ziti is a hearty dish featuring al dente pasta mixed with a savory marinara sauce and a blend of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. It’s baked until golden and bubbly, ensuring every bite is creamy and satisfying.
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 black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan 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 cheese mixture, then top with another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, cheese mixture, and sauce.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the 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 melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 420kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 45g