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–+ servings

Deliciously Easy Homemade Comfort Food Recipes to Savor

Delight in this easy baked ziti recipe, a comforting classic perfect for weeknights, customizable and freezable for busy days.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 box ziti pasta tubular pasta holds sauce well
For the Sauce
  • 1 jar marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 3 cloves garlic freshly minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano enhances flavor
For the Cheese
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese or substitute with cottage cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese add extra for cheesiness
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese for topping before baking
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage for added protein
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Ziti
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then add marinara sauce and oregano. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Mix the ricotta cheese with the cooked ziti, then combine with the sauce and optional ingredients if using.
  5. Layer half of the ziti mixture in the baking dish, add mozzarella, then layer the remaining ziti, more mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients, ensuring a comforting and flavorful dish.

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