The Best Baked Ziti
Uncover the Comfort of Cheese and Pasta
Ever walked into a kitchen and been enveloped by the warm, inviting aroma of creamy, bubbling baked pasta? That’s exactly the kind of magic you’ll unleash with The Best Baked Ziti! This recipe is not just your average pasta dish; it’s a one-pan wonder that brings comfort food to a whole new level. Easy, affordable, and oh-so-delicious, it’s a meal that will have your taste buds dancing!
Why Make This Recipe
Why will you fall head over heels for this baked ziti? Let me count the ways! First, cleanup is a breeze since everything gets cooked in one dish. Who doesn’t love that?! Second, it’s family-friendly, meaning picky eaters won’t turn their noses up—there’s something for everyone. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Win-win-win!
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- Italian sausage
- Marinara sauce
- Cottage cheese
- Fresh basil (yum!)
- Mozzarella cheese
- Ziti pasta
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
Directions
Let’s get cooking with some simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Mix in the cooked ziti, cottage cheese, chopped basil, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella, chopping it instead of shredding for those melty pools of goodness.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving, and enjoy!
How to Make The Best Baked Ziti (Overview)
Okay, here’s the 411 on whipping up this dish. Start by cooking your ziti—easy peasy! While that’s happening, brown the sausage, then introduce the marinara sauce. It’s like a party in your skillet! Mix in all the cheesy goodness, and you’re almost done. Just layer it all in a casserole dish, pop it in the oven, and wait for that delicious aroma to fill your home. Pro tip: Don’t skip chopping the mozzarella—those glorious cheese pockets are so worth it!
How to Serve The Best Baked Ziti
Serving up this baked ziti? Get creative! It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed in zesty vinaigrette that balances the richness of the dish. Maybe add a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of chili flakes for that extra pizzazz. The golden cheese crust just screams comfort, and your guests will be mesmerized by the colorful presentation!
How to Store The Best Baked Ziti
Wondering about leftovers? You can keep this ziti in the fridge for about 3-5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months—just let it cool completely before storing. For reheating, pop it in the oven at a low temperature or use the microwave, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. Easy as pie!
Tips to Make The Best Baked Ziti
Here are some insider tricks to elevate your ziti:
- Use creamy ricotta instead of cottage cheese for an even richer texture.
- Swap out the meat for ground turkey or make it vegetarian by loading it with veggies!
- Cook your ziti just under al dente since it’ll continue to cook in the oven 🕒.
- For a kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes into the sauce.
Variation
Want to mix it up? Try adding spinach for a veggie boost or make it vegan by using plant-based sausage and cashew cheese. You can even toss in some roasted red peppers for a smoky twist. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the ziti, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I substitute for Italian sausage?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils work great as alternatives!
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Baked Ziti
Ingrédients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Mix in the cooked ziti, cottage cheese, chopped basil, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with the remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving, and enjoy!
