Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta
Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines layers of al dente pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a heavenly blend of cheeses. This dish not only satisfies your cravings but also brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to your table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees deliciousness in every bite. With its gooey texture and robust flavors, this Cheesy Baked Ziti Pasta will leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a bowl, mix marinara sauce and ricotta until smooth.
- Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan into the sauce mixture.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by half of the sauce mixture. Repeat layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 499
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked ground meat or sautéed vegetables. Adjust cooking time if using a different type of pasta. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving for an extra pop of color.