Description
Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that combines al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. With layers of flavor and gooey goodness, it’ll quickly become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 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 or parsley, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti in boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. If using meat, add it and cook until browned.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and half of the basil or parsley.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the marinara mixture, then half of the ziti followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg