Classic Baked Ziti is like a warm hug on a plate, oozing with cheesy goodness and enveloped in a rich marinara sauce. Picture this: the aroma of bubbling cheese fills your kitchen while you pull a golden-brown dish from the oven, ready to serve. Your mouth waters in anticipation as you slice into the layers of pasta, sauce, and melted mozzarella.
Let me take you back to family gatherings where Classic Baked Ziti was the star of our dinner table. Everyone gathered around, shoveling generous portions onto their plates while laughter echoed through the room. This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or festive occasions where comfort food reigns supreme.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Classic Baked Ziti is simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- You can adjust ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs without sacrificing flavor
- The vibrant layers of pasta and cheese create an eye-catching dish that is sure to impress your guests
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or a hearty side dish at any gathering
Every time I serve this dish, I can’t help but smile at my friends’ reactions—there’s always a chorus of “Mmm” and “Wow!” that fills the room.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ziti Pasta: Choose tubular pasta like ziti or penne; they hold the sauce beautifully and provide great texture.
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought variety or homemade for an extra special touch; both work wonderfully.
Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness and balances out the acidity of the marinara sauce perfectly.
Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella is key for that gooey, melty experience everyone loves.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste profile; don’t skip it!
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs elevates the flavor; feel free to add more if you’re feeling adventurous.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
Fresh Basil (optional): A sprinkle on top before serving adds color and freshness; it’s like confetti for your ziti!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Classic Baked Ziti
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Combine Pasta with Sauce Mixture: Fold cooked ziti into the sauce mixture gently; ensure every piece is coated in that deliciousness.
Add Cheese Layers: In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process with remaining ingredients.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish & Serve!: Once out of the oven, allow it to cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil if desired. Slice into squares and enjoy this cheesy delight!
Classic Baked Ziti isn’t just food; it’s an experience that brings people together around hearty flavors and warm memories. As you dig into each bite filled with nostalgia, you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more serving—because who could resist? So grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and let’s make some memories over this classic comfort dish!
You Must Know
- Classic Baked Ziti is a comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd
- The rich aroma of bubbling cheese and marinara sauce fills the kitchen, creating a warm atmosphere
- Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have in your pantry
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by boiling the pasta until al dente while simultaneously simmering your marinara sauce. Once cooked, mix them together with ricotta and mozzarella before baking for the ultimate cheesy goodness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap traditional cheeses for goat cheese or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick if you love a bit of heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that cheese remains melty.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use high-quality marinara sauce; it makes a significant difference
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking while baking
- Letting the baked ziti rest before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully
Nothing warms my heart more than seeing my kids devour this classic dish after a long day. Their smiles and satisfied “mmms” are pure joy, reminding me why I love cooking.
FAQ
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese in Classic Baked Ziti?
Cottage cheese or even mascarpone can work well as alternatives to ricotta cheese.
Can I make Classic Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it ahead and refrigerate before baking; just add extra time in the oven.
What type of pasta is best for Classic Baked Ziti?
Ziti or penne works great due to their tubular shape, holding sauce wonderfully.
Classic Baked Ziti
Classic Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese into a satisfying dish that warms the soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. With just a few simple steps, you can create a scrumptious meal that will leave your loved ones asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Gently fold the cooked ziti into the sauce mixture until evenly coated.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil if desired. Slice and serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, try using high-quality marinara sauce. You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone. Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra twist.
