If you’re in the mood for a comforting, cheesy dish, this Four-Cheese Baked Ziti is the answer. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines pasta with rich, gooey cheese, delivering an experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
Imagine a hearty plate of ziti, enveloped in a creamy blend of four different cheeses, baked to perfection until golden and bubbly. The layers of flavor create a delightful combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
The Allure of Baked Ziti
Baked ziti stands as a symbol of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.
With its layers of pasta, rich sauces, and a melty cheese topping, every bite is a celebration of flavor.
This dish invites everyone to gather around, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal.
A Symphony of Cheeses
The magic of cheesy baked ziti lies in its four-cheese blend: mozzarella, ricotta, provolone, and parmesan.
Each cheese contributes its unique character, creating a creamy, gooey texture that coats the pasta beautifully.
When baked, the top becomes golden and crusty, while the inside remains ooey-gooey, enticing anyone nearby to take a forkful.
Preparation Made Simple
Creating this dish is straightforward and rewarding.
Begin by cooking the ziti pasta, ensuring it reaches the perfect al dente texture before combining it with a savory marinara sauce.
Mixing in the cheese blend elevates the dish, ensuring every layer is infused with cheesy goodness.
The Baking Process
Once assembled, the ziti bakes covered to allow the flavors to meld, then uncovered for that final touch of golden perfection.
The aroma wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone eagerly anticipate that first bite.
After a short cooling time, the dish is ready to serve, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti shines as a main course, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Pair it with a simple salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
This dish is not just a feast for the palate; it’s also a feast for the eyes, making it an impressive centerpiece for any dining table.
Making Memories
Sharing baked ziti is about more than just the food; it’s about the moments created around the table.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish encourages laughter, conversation, and joy.
It’s a reminder that some of the best memories are made over a plate of comforting, cheesy goodness.
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Four-Cheese Baked Ziti
This Four-Cheese Baked Ziti is a rich and satisfying dish featuring a melty mixture of mozzarella, ricotta, parmesan, and provolone cheeses. The baked pasta is topped with a savory marinara sauce and baked until bubbling, creating a cheesy, warm delight that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions
- Cook the Ziti: Preheat the 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 ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, provolone cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and basil (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Combine with Marinara: In a large pot, combine the cooked ziti with marinara sauce and half of the cheese mixture. Stir until the pasta is thoroughly coated.
- Layer the Ziti: In a greased baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture. Add dollops of the remaining cheese mixture on top, then layer the rest of the ziti on top of that.
- 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 extra basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g