Zesty Ziti Delight

Hearty, Comforting, and Layered with Flavor
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Zesty Ziti Delight

Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 375  °F
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Dive into a comforting classic with our Baked Ziti! This Italian-American favorite features tender ziti pasta enveloped in a rich and savory marinara sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, the result is a bubbling, golden dish that’s sure to warm your soul. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this hearty and satisfying meal offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures in every bite. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing feast.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and ricotta mixture. Mix until well combined. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Keywords: Comfort food, Italian-American, Cheesy, Pasta bake, Marinara sauce, Ricotta cheese, Mozzarella, Family dinner, Hearty, Casserole