Hands down, this is the only dish my hubby requests weekly!.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will allow your baked ziti to cook perfectly, giving the cheese a golden, bubbly texture on top.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. If you’re using ricotta cheese, you can add it to the sauce at this stage to create a creamier texture. Stir in the garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Once the pasta is drained, place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta and toss it until evenly coated. If you’d like extra cheese in the mix, you can stir in half of the mozzarella at this stage.
5. Assemble the Baked Ziti: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a little more ricotta for an extra layer of creaminess.
6. Bake the Ziti: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a golden crust on top. If you prefer a slightly crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot, with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad to complete the meal.

Why This Recipe Is a Weekly Request

1. Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something inherently comforting about a cheesy, saucy baked pasta dish. The gooey mozzarella, the rich marinara sauce, and the tender pasta combine to create a meal that feels like home. It’s the kind of dish that you can sink into, leaving you feeling full and happy.
2. Customizable: The beauty of baked ziti is how easily it can be customized. Want to add some ground beef, sausage, or veggies? Go for it! You can throw in whatever you like, making it your own. It’s easy to adjust based on your family’s tastes, and that’s why it’s become a favorite.
3. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: While it only takes a few ingredients, the dish never lacks flavor. The combination of cheese, pasta, and sauce creates a hearty, satisfying meal that requires little effort but delivers big results. It’s perfect for when you want a meal that feels special, without the fuss.
4. Perfect for Leftovers: One of the best parts of baked ziti is how well it holds up as leftovers. The flavors continue to meld together after sitting overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead dish. Plus, it’s just as delicious the next day, making it an easy meal for busy days.
5. A Meal for Everyone: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, baked ziti is a crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty, filling, and appeals to all ages. It’s the kind of dish that gets devoured, and it’s always fun to hear the compliments as everyone digs in.

Conclusion: The Dish That Brings Us Together

Baked ziti is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition in our household. It’s the dish that my husband can’t resist, the one that he requests week after week. Its combination of comfort, flavor, and simplicity makes it the perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a dish to share with loved ones, this easy, cheesy baked ziti will hit the spot every time.

So, next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner, try this recipe. You might just find that it becomes your family’s new weekly request too!