If you're craving a comforting and cheesy dish that will make your taste buds sing, look no further than this irresistible Baked Ziti with Cheese! This Italian classic combines perfectly cooked ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a heavenly blend of cheeses that melt together to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With just 45 minutes from prep to plate, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve that’s perfect for any occasion. Dive into this recipe and discover the secrets to achieving that gooey, cheesy perfection that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your baked ziti cooks evenly and is hot throughout when served.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, in a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot. Add the marinara sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the pot with the pasta. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture in an even layer. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, spreading it gently to cover as much surface area as possible.
- Top the ricotta layer with the remaining pasta mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it does not touch the cheese. This will help to keep the moisture in while it bakes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers to set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve the baked ziti warm, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian meal!
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure to cook the ziti pasta until it’s al dente. This means it should still have a slight bite to it, as it will continue to cook while baking in the oven.
- Layering is Key: When layering your baked ziti, try to spread the ricotta mixture evenly for a balanced flavor in every bite. Don’t skimp on the cheese—more is definitely better!
- Add Some Spice: For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mixing in some cooked Italian sausage or vegetables for added flavor and texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
- Garnish for Flair: Enhance the presentation by garnishing with fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that will elevate your dish!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
