Description
Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a melty cheese medley. This dish captures the essence of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. With its warm, inviting aroma and satisfying flavors, Baked Ziti is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this easy-to-make casserole brings joy to every table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted water until al dente (about 8–10 minutes); drain.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant (3–4 minutes).
- If using meat, add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, meat mixture (if using), and basil.
- Pour into a greased baking dish; top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg