Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti Simple and Filling Recipe

Are you ready to enjoy a warm, comforting dish that’s both easy to make and oh-so-cheesy? In this blog post, I’ll share my favorite recipe for Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti. Packed with ziti pasta, rich marinara, and layers of gooey cheese, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking together!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Ziti pasta

– Marinara sauce

– Ricotta cheese

– Mozzarella cheese

– Parmesan cheese

Measurements and Substitutions

For this Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti, you will need specific amounts of each ingredient. Here’s a quick breakdown:

– Ziti pasta: 12 oz

– Marinara sauce: 2 cups

– Ricotta cheese: 1 cup

– Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups shredded

– Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup grated

If you have dietary needs, you can swap some ingredients. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta. If you want a lighter dish, use low-fat cheeses. If you’re lactose intolerant, look for dairy-free versions of ricotta and mozzarella.

Optional Garnishes

Garnishes add a nice touch. Here are some ideas:

– Fresh basil leaves: These add a bright flavor.

– Crushed red pepper flakes: For some heat.

– Chopped parsley: For color and freshness.

Feel free to mix and match garnishes to suit your taste! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Pasta

Boiling the ziti is the first step. You need to bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it bubbles, add the ziti pasta. Stir gently to prevent sticking. Cook the ziti until it is al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Al dente means the pasta is firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

For perfect al dente pasta, check it a minute or two before the time on the package. The pasta should have a slight bite to it. If you overcook it, the ziti will become mushy in the oven.

Making the Cheese Sauce

Now, let’s make the cheese sauce. In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix these well until smooth. Add half of the mozzarella cheese to the bowl and stir again.

Seasoning is very important here. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper to your liking. A well-seasoned sauce makes the dish pop with flavor.

Layering and Baking

Next, transfer the ziti mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. This helps the dish cook uniformly. Now, sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

For even cheese distribution, make sure to cover all areas of the ziti. This ensures every bite has cheesy goodness.

Bake in the preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. Once it’s done, let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the dish set and makes it easier to serve.

For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe].

Tips & Tricks

Key Cooking Tips

To make your Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti stand out, focus on flavor. Here are some tips:

– Use fresh herbs like basil for extra taste.

– Choose a good-quality marinara sauce. It makes a big difference.

– Add garlic powder for a warm touch. This gives depth to your dish.

Avoid common mistakes to ensure success:

– Do not overcook your ziti. It should be firm, not mushy.

– Mix the cheese sauce well. This helps every bite be cheesy.

– Don’t skip the resting time after baking. This helps the dish set.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your baked ziti with these tasty side dishes:

– A fresh garden salad with lemon vinaigrette.

– Garlic bread for a crunchy bite.

– Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans.

For presentation, try these ideas:

– Serve in a colorful dish to make it pop.

– Top with fresh basil leaves for a nice touch.

– Drizzle with olive oil for a shiny finish.

Reheating and Serving

To keep your baked ziti tasty when reheating, follow these steps:

– Use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for even heating.

– Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

For serving leftovers, try this:

– Place ziti in a bowl and sprinkle fresh cheese on top.

– Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh taste boost.

Variations

Vegetarian Options

You can easily make baked ziti vegetarian. Adding vegetables boosts nutrition and flavor. Good choices include spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Chop them small and mix them with the pasta and cheese sauce. You can also use a creamy white sauce instead of marinara. This change gives a new taste and keeps it rich.

Protein Additions

For those who love meat, adding ground beef or sausage works great. Brown the meat in a pan before mixing it with the pasta. This adds depth and flavor to your dish. If you want lighter options, consider turkey or chicken. You can also try plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas for a healthy twist.

Different Cheese Combinations

Cheese is the star of baked ziti. While mozzarella is a must, you can mix it up. Try using provolone for a sharp taste or gouda for a smoky flavor. Each cheese adds its own unique touch. Mixing different cheeses creates a richer, creamier dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites!

For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After your Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti cools, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. It’s best to eat leftovers within three to five days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. To freeze, wrap the ziti well in plastic wrap or foil. Be sure to use a freezer-safe container. This helps prevent freezer burn.

Shelf Life

Baked ziti can last in the fridge for about three to five days. If you freeze it, it can last for two to three months. Look for signs of spoilage. If you notice a bad smell, mold, or a change in color, it’s time to toss it. Always check before eating leftover ziti.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat ziti from the fridge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ziti in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it’s warm all the way through. If you’re reheating from the freezer, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, follow the same steps as before. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it to keep it from drying out. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy your tasty meal!

FAQs

How long does it take to make Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti?

It takes about 45 minutes to make Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti. Here’s how the time breaks down:

– Prep time: 10 minutes

– Cook time: 25-30 minutes

You will spend a little time boiling the pasta and mixing the sauce. Then, you bake it until the cheese melts and bubbles. This dish is quick and perfect for busy nights.

Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Baked Ziti ahead of time. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the ziti as directed in the recipe.

2. Allow it to cool before covering.

3. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

On baking day, just pop it in the oven. You may need to increase baking time by about 5-10 minutes if it’s cold.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta cheese, there are great alternatives. You can use:

– Cottage cheese for a similar texture

– Cream cheese for a richer taste

– Greek yogurt for a healthy twist

These options still give you a creamy texture and nice flavor in your Baked Ziti. Each substitute changes the taste a bit but can still be delicious. For the full recipe, check back to see how it all comes together!

In this blog post, we covered how to make Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti. We looked at the key ingredients, instructions, and helpful tips. I shared ways to customize your dish with different cheeses or proteins. I also included storage ideas and FAQs to help you succeed.

Overall, mastering Baked Ziti means enjoying a delicious meal that you can share. With practice, you’ll create dishes that impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Ziti Delight recipe! Bursting with flavor from marinara sauce, ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. With just a few simple steps, you can create a cheesy masterpiece in under 45 minutes. Ready to impress your taste buds? Click through now to explore the full recipe and discover how to make your next meal unforgettable!

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix in the cooked ziti pasta until well coated in the cheese sauce.

Transfer the ziti mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6