Print

Baked Ziti

Print Recipe

A comforting Italian-American classic, Baked Ziti combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 pound ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Add the cooked pasta, sautéed garlic, and marinara sauce into the ricotta mixture and stir until pasta is evenly coated.
  6. In a baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add cooked Italian sausage or sautéed vegetables to the pasta mixture before baking.

Find it online: https://delilita.com/baked-ziti-easy-delicious-meal/