Ah, baked ziti! There’s something so heartwarming about this classic dish, isn’t there? It’s that perfect blend of cheesy goodness and rich flavors that just wraps you in a cozy embrace. This cheesy baked ziti recipe has become a staple in my home, especially during family gatherings. My kids absolutely adore it, and honestly, who can resist gooey mozzarella and creamy ricotta mingling with ziti pasta and marinara sauce? I remember my grandmother making this on chilly weekends, filling the house with the most delicious aromas. Now, I’ve taken her recipe and made it my own, and every time I pull it out of the oven, it feels like a little piece of home. Trust me, once you try this, it’s going to become a beloved dish in your family too!
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy dish that’s pure comfort food. Make sure to use freshly shredded mozzarella for that perfect melt, and don’t skimp on the ricotta—it adds a delightful creaminess that ties everything together. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste, but trust me, this combination is already a winner!
How to Prepare the Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial because you want that cheesy goodness to bubble perfectly when it’s time to bake. While the oven heats up, grab a pot of water and bring it to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside, but don’t rinse it! You want that starchy goodness to help the sauce cling.
Prepping the Pasta
As the ziti cooks, keep an eye on the timer. You want it firm enough to hold up in the oven but not overcooked. Al dente is the name of the game here! Once drained, let it hang out while you mix everything else.
Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, toss the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure to mix it well so every piece of pasta gets coated in that delicious sauce! Then, fold in half of the shredded mozzarella for that extra cheesy layer.
Baking the Dish
Next, transfer that luscious mixture to a greased baking dish—don’t skip the grease; it makes serving so much easier! Top the ziti with the remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for a golden finish. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving, and enjoy the cheesy magic!
Tips for Success with Your Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
To take your cheesy baked ziti to the next level, consider using a mix of cheeses for added depth—try adding some provolone or a dash of smoked gouda for a unique twist. Incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers into the mix brings in a burst of flavor. If you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish beautifully. For a creamier texture, replace half of the ricotta with mascarpone cheese. And don’t forget, letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to meld together perfectly. Trust me, these little tweaks can make a big difference!
Variations on Your Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Now, let’s get a little creative with your cheesy baked ziti! You can easily switch things up by adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the pasta mixture for a hearty, meaty version. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try incorporating sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. For a twist on the sauce, swap out the marinara for a creamy alfredo or pesto sauce—yum! You could even add a layer of thinly sliced tomatoes for freshness. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and make this dish your own!
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
To elevate your cheesy baked ziti experience, serve it alongside a crisp mixed green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread is always a hit, adding that extra crunch. For a pop of color, garnish each serving with fresh basil or parsley. Trust me, it looks as good as it tastes!
Nutritional Information for Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
This cheesy baked ziti recipe yields approximately 6 servings, with each serving containing about 350 calories. You’ll also get 18g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, and 15g of fat, including 8g of saturated fat. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used.
FAQ about Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesy baked ziti a day in advance. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze cheesy baked ziti?
Yes, you can freeze cheesy baked ziti! Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish and cover it tightly. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I use if I don’t have ricotta?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, no worries! You can substitute it with cottage cheese for a similar texture. Cream cheese or mascarpone can also work, giving a richer flavor. Just remember to blend it well with the other ingredients for a smooth consistency!
Final Thoughts on the Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
I can’t wait for you to dive into this cheesy baked ziti recipe! It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Once you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Feel free to share your twists and tips—let’s keep the cheesy magic going!
For more information on the nutritional benefits of pasta, you can check out this article.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of baked ziti, visit Food Network.
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Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe: 7 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy cheesy baked ziti recipe that combines pasta with marinara sauce and a blend of cheeses.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add half of the mozzarella cheese and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add cooked ground beef or sausage to the pasta mixture.
- You can substitute marinara sauce with alfredo sauce for a creamy variation.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving for added color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cheesy baked ziti recipe
