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–+ servings

Cheesy Baked Ziti

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Baked Ziti recipe perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot for cooking pasta
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions, adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of sauce in a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add the cooked ziti and pour the remaining sauce over it. Top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
  4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 22gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Experiment with different cheeses or add vegetables for variety. Serving with a side salad or garlic bread enhances the meal.
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