If you’re craving a quick, creamy, and oh-so-flavorful dish that can turn any weeknight dinner into a cozy family feast, then Easy Baked Ziti is calling your name! This classic Italian-American recipe combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese into a delightful bake that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. Plus, did you know that baked ziti was originally created as a make-ahead meal for busy families? It’s true! With just a little bit of prep, you can whip up a hearty dish that’s perfect for sharing around the dinner table.
What makes this Easy Baked Ziti even more appealing is that it’s reminiscent of other popular comfort foods, like lasagna, but without the fuss involved in layering and lengthy prep time. So why not grab your apron and get ready to impress your family or guests with this easy-to-make gem? You’ll have everyone saying, “Mamma mia, this is delicious!” Trust us, once you try this dish, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
What is Easy Baked Ziti?
You might be wondering, “What on Earth is baked ziti?” Such a great question! Imagine a hearty, warm casserole dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a cold day. The name itself is a delightful nod to the pasta used—ziti, which are tube-shaped noodles that hold onto the rich sauce and melting cheese like a charm. It’s basically pasta’s way of saying “I love you!” Share this dish with loved ones, and you might just find that the way to their hearts very well could be through their stomachs!
And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a luscious baked pasta dish over yet another salad? Easy Baked Ziti is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, making it the perfect dish for dinner parties or cozy nights in. Do yourself a favor and give this delectable recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Ziti
When it comes to Easy Baked Ziti, three qualities stand out: incredible taste, wallet-friendly convenience, and customizable toppings. First and foremost, this pasta bake has an irresistible combination of gooey mozzarella and tangy marinara sauce that creates a mouthwatering sensation in every bite. Top it off with fresh basil or your favorite herbs, and you’ve got a recipe the whole family will adore.
Next, let’s talk about the cost-saving benefits of making this at home. With just a handful of affordable ingredients, you’ll whip up a satisfying meal that rivals any restaurant pasta dish without breaking the bank. Compared to ordering an expensive takeout or dining at a restaurant, you can save plenty of cash while feeding your family a hearty meal.
Lastly, the magic of this dish lies in how easy it is to adapt. Feel like adding in some sautéed veggies or swapping the meat for a different protein? Go for it! Similar to how you might tackle a comforting mac and cheese, baking ziti is versatile and perfect for experimentation. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the world of Easy Baked Ziti!
How to Make Easy Baked Ziti
Quick Overview
One of the best things about Easy Baked Ziti is its simplicity. You can have this delicious dish ready in about 30 minutes, with only 10 minutes of prep time. The blend of flavors, the creaminess of the cheese, and the hearty pasta make for an irresistible combination. This is a perfect recipe for those busy weeknights or when you need a meal that pleases a crowd, all in one dish!
Key Ingredients for Easy Baked Ziti
To create your masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish. Then, pour in the pasta and cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
What to Serve Easy Baked Ziti With
While Easy Baked Ziti is indulgent enough on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks to complete your meal. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is another classic accompaniment that will have everyone fighting for the last crust! A light Italian white wine or chilled lemonade also makes for a refreshing beverage to accompany this comforting dish.
Top Tips for Perfecting Easy Baked Ziti
To elevate your Easy Baked Ziti to the next level, here are some simple tips to keep in mind:
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to replace ricotta cheese with cottage cheese for a lighter option. Add in spinach or cooked mushrooms to pack in some extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cooking Time Adjustments: If you prefer a crispy topping, leave the foil off for the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown perfectly.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t overcook the pasta during the initial boiling stage; al dente is best! Also, make sure not to skip the egg, as it helps bind the ingredients together.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store Easy Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s also freezer-friendly; just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover your dish with foil, and reheat until warmed through. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave—it’s that easy!
Now that you have all the insight and recipe details for an Easy Baked Ziti, it’s time to dig in and enjoy a delicious meal that brings family and friends together. Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Ziti
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz ziti pasta Tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce well.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Store-bought or homemade.
For the Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese Can be substituted with cottage cheese.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Divided into two parts.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg Helps bind the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil Optional for topping.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
Baking
- Spread half of the marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour in the pasta and cheese mixture, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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