Pasta Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that is loved by many. It is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines ziti pasta, tomato sauce, cheese, and sometimes meat or vegetables. The dish is baked in the oven, which gives it a deliciously crisp and cheesy top. If you’re looking to make a comforting and satisfying meal for your family or friends, follow this simple guide on how to make baked ziti.

Ingredients

To make baked ziti, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ziti pasta
• 1 jar (24 ounces) of your favorite tomato sauce
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce and chopped fresh basil. Stir to combine.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta on top of the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, if desired.

Variations

• For a meaty version of baked ziti, brown 1 pound of ground beef or sausage with the minced garlic. Drain any excess fat before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
• You can also add vegetables to your baked ziti for a healthier twist. Sautee bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms and layer them along with the other ingredients.
• To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as spinach or eggplant.

Tips for Success

• Be sure to cook the ziti pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
• Use a good quality tomato sauce for the best flavor. You can also make your own homemade sauce using fresh tomatoes and herbs.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Try adding some shredded cheddar or fontina cheese for extra flavor.
• Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Making baked ziti is a simple and satisfying task that will surely please your taste buds. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own twist, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Follow the instructions and tips provided in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious baked ziti that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Enjoy Cooking…!