Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a comforting and delicious dish that combines pasta, cheese, and flavorful marinara sauce. This Italian-American classic is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering. It’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd, making it a popular choice for many.

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Ziti is an excellent choice for several reasons. First, it is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients. Second, it is a hearty meal that everyone will love. This dish is comforting, cheesy, and full of flavor. Lastly, Baked Ziti can be made ahead of time, making it great for busy weeknights or special occasions.

How to Make Baked Ziti

To make Baked Ziti, you will need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

• 350 g ziti pasta
• 250 g ricotta cheese
• 250 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 400 ml marinara sauce
• 50 g Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Start by boiling the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted water until it is al dente, following package instructions.
2. While the pasta cooks, mix the ricotta cheese in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set aside.
4. In a baking dish, start layering your ingredients. First, add a layer of ziti, then pour some marinara sauce over it.
5. Spoon a layer of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara and mozzarella on top.
7. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.
8. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

How to Serve Baked Ziti

Serve Baked Ziti hot out of the oven. You can pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s also a great dish to serve for family gatherings or potlucks—everyone will want a second helping!

How to Store Baked Ziti

If you have leftovers, you can store Baked Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Make sure to wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer.

Tips to Make Baked Ziti

• For extra flavor, add some cooked ground meat to the layers, like beef or sausage.
• You can also mix in some cooked vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, for more nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.

Variation

If you want a vegetarian option, you can skip the meat and load it up with more types of cheese and vegetables. You might also try using different pasta shapes, like penne or rotini, if you can’t find ziti.

FAQs

1. Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it with foil and refrigerate before baking.

2. Can Baked Ziti be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

3. How do I reheat Baked Ziti?
To reheat, you can pop it back in the oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes, or microwave single servings until warmed through.

Baked Ziti is easy to make and loved by many. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm and cheesy goodness!