Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Best Baked Ziti recipe. This classic Italian-American dish features layers of al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses that create a gooey, mouthwatering experience. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, baked ziti is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Impress your loved ones with this delightful meal that’s bursting with flavor and warmth.
Ingredients
1 pound ziti or penne pasta
4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
Fresh herbs (parsley or basil) for garnish
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375?F (190?C).
Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
If using meat, brown it in olive oil, then mix into the heated marinara sauce.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the Parmesan and some seasoning.
In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce, pasta, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella; repeat layers and finish with sauce and cheeses on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
For added nutrition, consider incorporating saut?ed vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
Feel free to make this dish ahead of time; just refrigerate before baking!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 25g