Golden Baked Ziti
A classic Italian-American dish perfect for family dinners, featuring layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a delectable cheese topping.
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking dish
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Large skillet
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
Cheese Layers
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add marinara sauce, stir, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta and sauce. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving
- Let baked ziti cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the ziti a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
How to Serve: Pair with a green salad or garlic bread.
Storage & Freshness: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the ziti a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.