Description
Life Changing Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and creamy textures for an unforgettable dining experience. This mouthwatering dish features tender ziti pasta layered with savory marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese that melts beautifully in the oven. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this baked ziti recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prepping. Each bite transports you back to cherished family gatherings, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Discover how simple it is to whip up this delicious baked ziti, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti pasta
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil (1 handful)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta in boiling water until al dente (about 6-7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella and chopped basil; season with salt and pepper.
- Layer marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish, followed by half of the cooked pasta, half of the cheese mixture, then more marinara sauce. Repeat these layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 181g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg