Welcome to the delightful world of Italian-inspired cuisine! Today, we have a scrumptious recipe for Baked Ziti that will transport your taste buds to a realm of flavors. This recipe, courtesy of lovewithrecipes.com, is not only a culinary masterpiece but also a testament to the art of creating a hearty and wholesome dish. Let’s dive into the details of crafting this delectable Baked Ziti that’s perfect for any occasion.
Baked Ziti Recipe
Overview:
- Name: Baked Ziti
- Category: European
- Keywords: Healthy, Less than 60 Minutes, Oven
- Aggregated Rating: 3.5 (from 4 Reviews)
- Calories per Serving: 439.5
- Servings: 8
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of ziti pasta
- 8 ounces of mozzarella cheese (shredded or cut into small cubes)
- 2 cups of cottage cheese
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 jar of your favorite pasta sauce
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 439.5
- Fat: 12.4g
- Saturated Fat: 5.8g
- Cholesterol: 30.3mg
- Sodium: 970.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 58.1g
- Fiber: 2.3g
- Sugar: 12.1g
- Protein: 22.6g
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cook ziti pasta for 10 minutes. |
| 2 | Drain the cooked ziti. |
| 3 | Shred or cut mozzarella cheese into small cubes. |
| 4 | In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, 3/4 of the mozzarella, cottage cheese, your favorite pasta sauce, and oregano. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. |
| 5 | Spread the mixture into two greased 12 x 8 x 2-inch pans, ensuring an even distribution. |
| 6 | Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the ziti mixture. |
| 7 | Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese has melted to golden perfection. |
| 8 | Once baked, allow the ziti to cool slightly before serving. |
Serving Suggestion:
This Baked Ziti recipe is thoughtfully divided for two meals, each serving four portions. It’s a fantastic dish for sharing with loved ones or saving leftovers for a quick and delicious meal later in the week.
Tips and Variations:
- Experiment with different types of pasta sauces to add your unique twist to the recipe.
- Consider adding a layer of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you’re a fan of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the mixture for a zesty kick.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this Baked Ziti recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the simplicity of preparation with a burst of Italian flavors. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting meal, this dish is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the magic of homemade Baked Ziti!
