Introduction
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food dish that is loved by many for its rich flavors and hearty textures. This delicious pasta bake is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or potluck parties. The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to make, requiring simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Easy Baked Ziti recipe will surely become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Baked Ziti typically consists of ziti pasta, marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that is both satisfying and comforting. The dish is baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the flavors have melded together perfectly.
In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you need, the step-by-step process of making Easy Baked Ziti, some delicious variations to try, helpful tips to ensure success, and answer some frequently asked questions about this beloved dish.
Ingredients
To make Easy Baked Ziti, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 4 cups marinara sauce
– 15 ounces ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
These simple ingredients can be easily found in most grocery stores and are budget-friendly, making this recipe a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
Steps
Follow these easy steps to make delicious Easy Baked Ziti:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top of the pasta.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
This Easy Baked Ziti recipe is a crowd-pleaser and will surely impress your family and friends with its delicious flavors and cheesy goodness.
Variations
While the classic Easy Baked Ziti recipe is a beloved favorite, there are endless variations you can try to customize this dish to your liking:
– Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for a meaty version of Baked Ziti.
– Mix in sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
– Use different types of cheese such as provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
– Substitute the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce for a richer and creamier Baked Ziti.
Feel free to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different ingredients to make Easy Baked Ziti your own signature dish.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your Easy Baked Ziti turns out perfectly every time:
– Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want it to become mushy.
– Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor. You can also make your own homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
– Let the Baked Ziti rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together and for easier serving.
– Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Conclusion
Easy Baked Ziti is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy cravings for a comforting and cheesy pasta dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests. Whether you stick to the traditional version or get creative with your own variations, Baked Ziti is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Easy Baked Ziti ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Baked Ziti up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply cover the dish with foil and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of Easy Baked Ziti?
A: Absolutely! Baked Ziti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q: What can I serve with Easy Baked Ziti?
A: Baked Ziti pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also enjoy it on its own as a satisfying one-dish meal.
Now that you have all the information you need to make Easy Baked Ziti, it’s time to head to the kitchen and whip up this delicious meal that will surely become a family favorite!
Easy Baked Ziti
A classic Italian-American comfort food dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese, baked to cheesy perfection. This Easy Baked Ziti recipe is simple to make and perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
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1 pound ziti pasta
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4 cups marinara sauce
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15 ounces ricotta cheese
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of mozzarella cheese, half of parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
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Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
