Okay, friends, let me tell you about this.What is the best baked ziti. This isn’t just any pasta bake. It’s the kind that gets requested for every potluck, family gathering, and frankly, any Tuesday. When we need a little extra love. Think lasagna, but easier, faster, and somehow more comforting. What’s that bubbly, cheesy top, the rich tomato sauce, and that satisfying, perfectly cooked meat? What is it like to be wrapped in a warm hug? I swear, I make this at least once a month – it’s THAT good! Is this a crowd-pleaser?
What is Baked Ziti?
Baked ziti is, at its heart, a baked pasta casserole. Think of it as a simplified lasagna, without all the fussy layering of noodles. It’s essentially cooked ziti pasta (those tube-shaped noodles, you know?) tossed in a rich tomato sauce, mixed with cheeses (usually ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan), and then baked until bubbly and golden brown. The name “ziti” refers to the type of pasta used, but honestly, you can get away with using penne or rigatoni if you’re in a pinch. It’s such a forgiving dish, and that’s one of the things I love most about it. It’s the ultimate comfort food, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I begin?What is the best baked ziti. First off, the FLAVOR. The combination of the sweet tomato sauce, the creamy ricotta, and the melty mozzarella is just right. What is the kind of dish that makes your taste buds sing?baked ziti recipeIs incredibly simple to make. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can nail this. Is this one of those recipes that’s almost impossible to mess up?What is the best baked zitiis super budget-friendly, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. Pasta, canned tomatoes, and cheese are all relatively inexpensive ingredients, making this a great meal. How do I impress someone without breaking the bank? What is the best thing about this recipe? What are some good side dishes to serve with ground beef or sausage? What are some vegetarian twists on spinach? Is this a blank canvas for culinary creativity?What is the best baked zitiI mean, who doesn’t love a big, cheesy pasta bake? It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks or just a cozy night in. What is the perfect recipe for a meal when you don’t know what to make and just want something satisfying? If you love easy pasta bakes, you might also enjoy my creamy tomato pasta or even a good old fashioned tomato sauce. What are some good old fashioned mac and cheese recipes What are some of the best things to do in lifeWhat is the best baked zitiWill soon become a new favorite!
How do I make Baked Ziti?
Quick Overview
Making this What is the best baked ziti is easier than you think! Basically, you’ll cook the pasta, make the sauce (or use your favorite jarred one – no judgment!), mix everything together with the cheeses, and then bake it until it’s golden and bubbly. It sounds simple, and that’s because it IS! Trust me, even if you’re not a pro chef, you can whip this up with minimal effort. I promise you will feel like a rockstar after making this incredibly easy and delicious dish!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
1 pound ziti pasta (or penne, rigatoni – whatever you have on hand! I usually use ziti, but sometimes I’m feeling adventurous and throw in something else. Make sure to cook it al dente, so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven. Overcooked pasta is a baked ziti tragedy!
For the Sauce:
1 can crushed tomatoes. (28 ounces) I prefer crushed tomatoes for the texture, but you can also use tomato puree or even diced tomatoes. 1 can of tomato sauce. This adds extra richness and depth of flavor. What is the best way to use dried oregano? 1/2 teaspoon dried basil. Basil and oregano are best friends in Italian cooking. 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is always best, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. 1/4 cup olive oil. Use a good quality Olive oil for the best flavor. What is the difference between salt and pepper?
For the Cheese Mixture:
15 ounces ricotta cheese. I like to use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture. But part-skim works just fine too!
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated is always best! The pre-shredded stuff just doesn’t melt as well.
1 large egg, beaten. This helps bind the cheese mixture together.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. This is what makes the top all bubbly and delicious! I love using the low-moisture, part-skim kind, but use whatever you have.
Salt and pepper to taste.
How do I follow
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use olive oil or cooking spray to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick. Make sure the oven is fully preheated before you put the dish in! I’ve learned this the hard way many times by having to wait longer for my ziti to cook.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to salt the water well! This is your only chance to season the pasta itself. Drain well and set aside. How do you avoid overcooking pasta?What is the best baked ziti!
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant. How do I burn garlic? Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and pepper. Mix well. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. What are the flavors that meld together? Is it okay to add sugar if your sauce is too acidic? If you like browned sausage, you can add any other flavor to the sauce. What are mushrooms?
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese and egg. Mix well. What is the cheese mixture?What are some of the best baked ziWhat are some of the best recipes for a creamy Make sure to break up any large clumps of ricotta so the mixture is nice and smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Ziti
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese mixture. Set aside. Toss gently to combine, making sure all the pasta is evenly coated. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and toss again. Now pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. What creates the bubbly golden brown crust?
Step 6: Bake!
If the cheese is melted and bubbly, bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Is lightly golden brown.What is the best baked zitiIs it necessary to wait for a few minutes before serving? How do I set up a cheese piece so that it doesn’t slide all over the place when you cut it? I usually let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, but honestly, sometimes I’m too impatient and dig right right.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the What is the best baked zitiLet cool before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. What is the best way to enjoy this recipe fresh out of the oven? What is the perfect dish for any occasion?
What should I serve it with?
This What is the best baked zitiIs a star on its own, but it’s even better with the right accompaniments?
For a casual dinner:Serve with a green salad and garlic bread. Is it a classic combination that never fails to please? I also love adding a side of steamed green beans for some freshness.
For a Potluck or Party: Make a big batch of this baked ziti recipe and bring it to your next potluck. It’s always a hit! Serve with a side of Italian sausage or meatballs for a heartier meal. Some great appetizer ideas include stuffed mushrooms or bruschetta!
For a Special Occasion: Dress up the baked ziti recipe with a side of roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach. Serve with a glass of red wine for a more elegant meal. Consider adding a nice crusty bread with a dipping oil for a fancy treat!
One of my family traditions is to always serve this baked ziti recipe with a big bowl of Caesar salad. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons are the perfect complement to the rich, cheesy pasta. We’ve been doing this for years, and it’s just not the same without it! I also think this dish pairs perfectly with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea. So fresh!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Ziti Recipe
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this baked ziti recipe even better. Here are my top tips:
Pasta Perfection: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente! Overcooked pasta will turn mushy in the oven, and nobody wants that. I always set a timer and check the pasta a minute or two before it’s supposed to be done.
Sauce Secrets: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the sauce. You can add vegetables, meat, or even a splash of red wine for extra flavor. I sometimes add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce for extra richness. The key is to simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Cheese Considerations: Use good quality cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan and whole milk ricotta will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the baked ziti recipe. I also recommend using low-moisture mozzarella cheese to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have ziti, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta. You can also substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese, but the texture will be slightly different. I have done this many times and my family doesn’t even notice!
Baking Brilliance: Bake the baked ziti recipe until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning. I usually bake it uncovered for the first 15 minutes and then cover it with foil for the remaining time.
Glaze Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! You can sprinkle breadcrumbs, herbs, or even a drizzle of olive oil over the top of the baked ziti recipe before baking for added flavor and texture. I love adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
One of my biggest lessons learned is to always let the baked ziti recipe cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set up a bit so it doesn’t slide all over the place when you cut into it. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This baked ziti recipe is perfect for making ahead of time or for leftovers. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:
Room Temperature: You can leave the baked ziti recipe at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated or frozen to prevent bacterial growth. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it from drying out. I’ve done this when I know we are going to eat it within a few hours after baking!
Refrigerator Storage: Store the baked ziti recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating. I usually divide it into individual portions for easy reheating.
Freezer Instructions: Freeze the baked ziti recipe in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. I recommend wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap before freezing for easy thawing and reheating. This is a great make-ahead dish!
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the baked ziti recipe, it’s best to add the mozzarella cheese after thawing and before baking. This will prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery. You can also add a fresh sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
When reheating, you can add a splash of milk or broth to the baked ziti recipe to keep it from drying out. I usually reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as evenly heated. Just be sure to cover it with a paper towel to prevent splattering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s favorite baked ziti recipe! I truly believe this is the ultimate comfort food, and I hope you love it as much as we do. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. What’s not to love? If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other pasta bakes, like my lasagna roll ups or creamy pesto pasta bake. They’re all just as easy and delicious!
Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. I’d love to hear about any variations you try. And if you make this baked ziti recipe, be sure to snap a photo and tag me on social media! I love seeing your creations!
Baked Ziti Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, oregano, and garlic powder.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce.
- Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture.
- Repeat layers with remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and marinara sauce.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
