Irresistible Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is the epitome of comfort food, combining layers of al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and an irresistible blend of cheeses. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this dish emerges from the oven bubbling with a golden crust that promises warmth and satisfaction. With easy preparation and the option to customize with your favorite ingredients, this baked ziti will surely become a beloved staple in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti pasta until al dente according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- If using meat, brown ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and basil until combined.
- In a baking dish, layer marinara sauce at the bottom, followed by half of the cooked ziti and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers and top with remaining marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg