Classic Comfort Food Baked Ziti
Highlighted under: Feel-Good Meals
I absolutely love making baked ziti; it's one of those comforting dishes that remind me of home and gatherings with family. The warm, cheesy layers create a cozy atmosphere that makes everyone smile. With just a bit of prep and a wonderful blend of flavors, this dish can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion. It's versatile too—great for feeding a crowd or enjoying the leftovers the next day. Trust me, once you dive into this cheesy goodness, you’ll understand why it’s a classic!
When I first tried my hand at baked ziti, I was amazed at how simple the process was yet so rewarding. I remember layering the pasta with marinara sauce and cheese, watching as it transformed into comfort food magic. One tip I have is to use a mix of mozzarella and ricotta; the creaminess really elevates the dish!
Since then, I’ve experimented with adding different vegetables and meats, making this dish endlessly customizable. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is irresistible, and it brings back memories of family dinners, making it a cherished recipe in my home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying hunger
- Layers of gooey cheese that stretch with every bite
- Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
Choosing the Right Pasta
While ziti pasta is traditional for this baked ziti recipe, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to hold the layers of cheese and sauce. Cook the pasta until al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. This helps prevent mushiness and gives your dish a pleasing texture.
For the best results, I recommend checking the pasta a minute or two before the package's recommended cooking time. Once drained, tossing the pasta with a bit of olive oil can help prevent sticking and keep it from clumping during assembly.
Perfecting the Cheese Layers
The cheese mixture is key to achieving that creamy richness in your baked ziti. Using fresh ricotta gives a smooth texture, but if you're in a pinch, cottage cheese can serve as a budget-friendly substitute. Additionally, mixing in a bit of grated mozzarella into the ricotta blend can enhance the overall cheesiness and cohesion of the layers.
When layering the cheeses, be generous with the mozzarella on top. This allows for that delightful, golden-brown crust that everyone looks forward to. If you prefer a crispier top, consider broiling the ziti for a few minutes once it's fully baked, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Storage and Leftovers
Baked ziti is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. If you prefer to freeze it, make sure to use a freezer-safe dish and wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking for the best results.
When reheating leftovers, I find that microwaving in short intervals works best to maintain the cheesy goodness without drying it out. If you're reheating a sizeable portion, consider covering it in a baking dish with foil and warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Baked Ziti
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Combine all the ingredients and layer them for the perfect baked ziti!
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well blended.
Assemble the Ziti
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers.
Bake the Ziti
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Enjoy your homemade baked ziti with a side salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce. Also, using freshly grated cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti is delicious on its own, but adding a side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are also perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce, enhancing the meal experience.
For a touch of gourmet, sprinkle some fresh herbs like oregano or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top just before serving. This not only elevates the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor that brightens the hearty dish.
Variations to Try
To mix things up, consider adding ingredients like sautéed vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the cheese layer. Ground meat or Italian sausage can also be incorporated into the marinara sauce for added depth and protein, making it even more filling.
For a spicier version, incorporate red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce or try adding slices of spicy pepperoni between the layers. This can transform your classic baked ziti into a delicious, zesty treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne or rigatoni work great as substitutes.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
→ What can I serve with baked ziti?
A side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with baked ziti.
→ Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or a lid.
Classic Comfort Food Baked Ziti
I absolutely love making baked ziti; it's one of those comforting dishes that remind me of home and gatherings with family. The warm, cheesy layers create a cozy atmosphere that makes everyone smile. With just a bit of prep and a wonderful blend of flavors, this dish can turn any ordinary day into a special occasion. It's versatile too—great for feeding a crowd or enjoying the leftovers the next day. Trust me, once you dive into this cheesy goodness, you’ll understand why it’s a classic!
Created by: Imogen Walker
Recipe Type: Feel-Good Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Baked Ziti
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well blended.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve warm and enjoy the deliciousness!
Extra Tips
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce. Also, using freshly grated cheese will enhance the flavor significantly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 590mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 22g