Print

Baked Ziti Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 61 reviews

A comforting classic Italian-American baked pasta dish combining tender ziti with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and marinara sauce, baked until bubbly and golden.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound ziti pasta

Cheese Mixture

  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you prepare the pasta mixture.
  2. Cook pasta: Boil the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare cheese mixture: In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
  4. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked ziti into the cheese mixture and stir gently until all the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
  5. Assemble in baking dish: Lightly grease a baking dish, pour the pasta mixture into it, and evenly spread it out. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella cheese on top.
  6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.
  • Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
  • Adding cooked Italian sausage or vegetables like spinach and mushrooms can enhance flavor and nutrition.
  • Allow baked ziti to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to set.
  • If fresh basil is unavailable, dried Italian herbs can be sprinkled on top before baking.

Find it online: https://sweetworldtastes.com/baked-ziti-recipe/