Easy & Delicious Baked Ziti
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Introduction
The Easy & Delicious Baked Ziti is a dish full of cheesy goodness, perfect for a cold night or when you are expecting a hungry crowd. If you are looking for a simple, comforting, and hearty meal, this Baked Ziti checks all the boxes.
Why Make This Recipe
The beauty of this baked ziti recipe is in its simplicity. It brings together everyday ingredients with memory-inducing flavors to create a hearty meal that both adults and children will love. It’s easy to prepare, uses pantry staples, and is super satisfying.
How to Make Easy & Delicious Baked Ziti
Ingredients
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 24 oz marinara sauce
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Directions
Please refer to the detailed steps provided in the original recipe instruction.
How to Serve Easy & Delicious Baked Ziti
This cheesy baked ziti can be served as a main dish, along with a simple green salad on the side. You can enjoy it with a baguette or garlic bread and a glass of your favorite red wine.
How to Store Easy & Delicious Baked Ziti
You can store this baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to eat, you can warm it up in a microwave or in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F until heated through.
Tips to Make Easy & Delicious Baked Ziti
– The Pasta: Cooking the ziti until al dente ensures that the pasta does not get too soft and mushy during the baking process.
– Layering: The layering method makes all the difference producing an evenly distributed combination of pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese throughout.
Variation
You can add some cooked ground beef or sausage to the cheese and pasta mixture if you want to add some meat to the dish.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with other types of pasta like penne or rigatoni.
Q2. Can I freeze baked ziti?
Yes, let it cool, then cover it with plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q3. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade marinara sauce can only make this baked ziti taste even better.