Description
A simple, creamy, and cheesy baked pasta dish perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners. With minimal ingredients and prep, this dish delivers maximum comfort and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti noodles
- 24 ounces pasta sauce (your favorite marinara or tomato-based sauce)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Cook the Ziti Noodles:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
3️⃣ Prepare the Cheese and Sauce Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the ricotta cheese, and the pasta sauce. Stir until fully mixed.
4️⃣ Coat the Noodles:
Add the cooked ziti noodles to the cheese and sauce mixture. Stir well until all the noodles are evenly coated.
5️⃣ Assemble the Casserole:
Spray a large baking dish with nonstick spray. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
6️⃣ Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta.
7️⃣ Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
8️⃣ Serve:
Let the baked ziti cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a festive touch, if desired.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
- Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6-8