ADVERTISEMENT

Baked Ziti: A Flavorful Pasta Bake

    ADVERTISEMENT

    Get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of our Baked Ziti recipe, a delicious and satisfying pasta bake that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic Italian-American dish features tender ziti pasta smothered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, layered with creamy ricotta cheese, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a potluck, or simply craving a cozy meal, our Baked Ziti is sure to hit the spot. So let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this irresistible pasta bake that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!

    Who is This Recipe For?

    This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty and comforting pasta dishes. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast looking for a new recipe to try or a busy home cook in need of a crowd-pleasing meal, our Baked Ziti is the perfect choice. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is accessible to cooks of all skill levels, making it a versatile and reliable option for any occasion. Plus, with its customizable ingredients and flexible serving options, you can easily tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions, making it a go-to dish for families and gatherings alike.

    Why It’s Great

    What makes our Baked Ziti great is its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas. The ziti pasta is cooked until perfectly al dente, providing a satisfying bite that’s both tender and toothsome. The rich and flavorful tomato sauce is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, adding depth and complexity to every spoonful. And the creamy ricotta cheese and melted mozzarella create a luscious and indulgent layer that binds the dish together and adds a deliciously cheesy finish. Whether served as a main course with a side salad and garlic bread or as a side dish alongside your favorite protein, our Baked Ziti is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    Ingredients:

    • 1 pound ziti pasta
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 onion, diced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)

    Directions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
    2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
    3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
    4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
    5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the tomato sauce, stirring until well coated.
    6. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
    7. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture, ricotta cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
    8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    9. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
    10. Garnish the Baked Ziti with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.

    Kitchen Equipment Needed

    To make this delicious Baked Ziti, you’ll need:

    • Large pot for cooking pasta
    • 9×13-inch baking dish
    • Large skillet
    • Mixing bowl
    • Aluminum foil

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    How to Store Leftovers

    If you happen to have any leftover Baked Ziti, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the ziti in the microwave or oven until heated through, being careful not to overcook.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: Can I add meat to this recipe? A: Absolutely! If you prefer a meaty version of Baked Ziti, you can brown ground beef, Italian sausage, or ground turkey in the skillet before adding the onion and garlic. Simply cook the meat until browned and cooked through, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

    Q: Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use any tubular pasta shape such as penne, rigatoni, or mezzi rigatoni in place of ziti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the size and shape of the pasta.

    Q: Can I freeze Baked Ziti? A: Yes, Baked Ziti freezes well. To freeze, assemble the dish as directed but do not bake. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.

    Conclusion

    With its hearty pasta, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, our Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this flavorful and satisfying pasta bake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

    Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, and be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

    ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT


Leave a Comment