Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy straight to your kitchen. This recipe captures the essence of Italian comfort food, making it perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even meal prepping for busy weekdays. Imagine a dish layered with ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses that melt to perfection – it's an experience that feeds not only the belly but the soul.
The cheesy, gooey goodness combined with the heartiness of the pasta makes Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese an irresistible choice. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or anyone in between, this dish can easily become your go-to meal. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, and the best part is, it only takes about an hour from start to finish.
When you dig into this amazing baked ziti, you'll find layers of flavor that satisfy every craving. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is enough to make your mouth water and keep you coming back for seconds. This guide will explore the reasons why this recipe stands out, how to prepare it, and the best ways to serve it. Let’s dive into the cheesy world of Easy Baked Ziti!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is not just another pasta dish; it’s an experience that brings joy with every bite. Here are a few reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home:
- Simplicity: The ingredients are easy to find and can often be pantry staples. You won’t have to make a special trip to the store.
- Quick Preparation: With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, you can spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
- Comfort Food: This dish embodies comfort food at its best, providing warmth and satisfaction on any occasion.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding vegetables, different meats, or even swapping the type of cheese to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- Leftover Goodness: Baked ziti keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated for a quick meal throughout the week.
With these appealing factors, it’s no surprise that Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is loved by many.
Preparation and Cooking Time
The total time it takes to prepare and cook Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is approximately 1 hour. Here’s a breakdown of the time required:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
These times may vary depending on your kitchen experience and tools, but this estimate gives a good idea of what to expect.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is a breeze if you follow these simple steps:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti or penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine with Marinara: In another bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce until the pasta is adequately coated.
- Layer Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Then, spread the cheese mixture evenly on top. Finally, layer the remaining pasta on top of the cheese mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the final layer of pasta.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Cool Down: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to settle.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil to add a pop of color and flavor before serving.
These steps will guide you in creating Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese effortlessly and deliciously.
How to Serve
Serving Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese can be as fun as creating it! Here are some tips to enhance your serving experience:
- Presentation: Serve the baked ziti in the baking dish for a rustic look or transfer to a large serving platter for a more elegant presentation.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that balances flavors.
- Portion Control: Cut generous slices but consider smaller sizes, as this dish is very filling and encourages seconds.
- Garnishing: Add freshly grated Parmesan or chopped fresh herbs on top before serving for a gourmet touch.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a glass of red wine or sparkling lemonade to complement the flavors.
By following these serving tips, you can elevate the dining experience and impress your guests, making your Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese the star of any table setting!
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Use fresh herbs and quality cheese for the best results.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, make sure to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to substitute or add different cheeses, like ricotta, fontina, or gouda, for a unique twist.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian sausage for a spicy kick.
- Serve with Love: Food made with love always tastes better! Don’t rush the cooling or serving process; take the time to enjoy it.
Recipe Variation
Explore these delightful variations of Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese to change things up:
- Vegetarian Version: Load your baked ziti with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious twist.
- Meat Lover's Ziti: Add ground beef or Italian sausage for a meatier dish that packs in extra protein.
- Pesto Ziti: Incorporate pesto sauce instead of traditional marinara for a fragrant and herby flavor profile.
- Spicy Ziti: Include jalapeños or hot Italian sausage to give a spicy twist to your baked ziti.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free pasta options to cater to dietary preferences.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Store leftover Easy Baked Ziti covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the baked ziti cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake until heated through.
Special Equipment
While creating this comforting dish, having the right tools will make the process seamless. Here are some essential items you might need:
- Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining different ingredients.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch pan works perfectly for this recipe.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you use the right amount of each ingredient.
- Aluminum Foil: Ideal for covering the dish while baking to prevent excessive browning if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based options.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you start with a cold dish.
Is it necessary to add an egg to the cheese mixture?
While it helps bind the cheese filling, you can omit the egg for a different texture.
What’s the best way to reheat baked ziti?
Cover it with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if preferred.
Conclusion
Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is not just a meal; it's a delight that brings family and friends together around the table. The layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce create a hearty dish that captivates the heart and palate. Plus, its ease of preparation and versatility make it an enduring favorite. Whip it up today, and let this classic comfort food brighten your dinner table!
Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Creating Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese is a breeze if you follow these simple steps:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti or penne pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine with Marinara: In another bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce until the pasta is adequately coated.
- Layer Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread half of the pasta mixture. Then, spread the cheese mixture evenly on top. Finally, layer the remaining pasta on top of the cheese mixture.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the final layer of pasta.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Cool Down: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to settle.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil to add a pop of color and flavor before serving.
These steps will guide you in creating Easy Baked Ziti with Cheese effortlessly and deliciously.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 30g
