Baked Ziti Recipe
Description:
This Baked Ziti recipe is a go-to comfort meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Perfect for those lazy days when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. The beauty of this dish is its versatility—feel free to add your favorite meats and vegetables to make it even more filling and nutritious. Let’s dive into this cheesy delight! 🧀🍝
Nutrition Information:
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 412.1 |
| Fat Content | 15.9 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 7.9 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 43 mg |
| Sodium Content | 982.3 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 46.8 g |
| Fiber Content | 1.8 g |
| Sugar Content | 14 g |
| Protein Content | 19.8 g |
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ziti pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your ziti. 🌡️🔄 -
-
Cook the Pasta:
While the oven is heating up, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches the al dente stage. This typically means the pasta should be firm to the bite but not hard. Once cooked, drain the pasta well to remove any excess water. 🍲💧 -
Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tomato sauce with the ricotta and mozzarella cheeses. Mix well to ensure the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. This will create that creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. 🥄🧀 -
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked ziti pasta to the bowl with the cheese and sauce mixture. Gently toss until all the pasta is well-coated with the cheesy sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring every piece of ziti is infused with flavor. 🍝💫 -
Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Pour the pasta and sauce mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it cook uniformly. Once the pasta is in the dish, sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top. The parmesan will create a golden, crispy topping that’s absolutely irresistible. 🥘✨ -
Bake:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from browning too quickly. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned around the edges. This ensures the flavors meld together perfectly and the dish is piping hot throughout. ⏲️🔥
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your baked ziti hot out of the oven with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. This meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a crowd-pleaser. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness and color. 🌿🥖
Additional Tips:
- Meat Option: Brown some ground beef, sausage, or turkey and mix it into the cheese and sauce mixture for a heartier version.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Sauté some bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms and add them to the pasta mix for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a unique twist.
Enjoy your deliciously cheesy and comforting Baked Ziti, a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal! Bon appétit! 🍽️🧀
