ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Marinara Sauce:
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the pan. Stir well to combine. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. If you find the sauce too acidic, add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors can meld together.
3. Mix the Pasta and Sauce:
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss it with the sauce until everything is well-coated. You want every piece of pasta to be drenched in that rich, flavorful marinara.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish (a 9×13-inch dish works great), spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture evenly. Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over the pasta, and sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella. Add the remaining pasta on top and top it with the rest of the mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
5. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Why This Dish Is a Hit
When I made this Cheesy Baked Ziti for my son’s get-together, it was an instant crowd-pleaser. Here’s why:
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Pasta is always a hit because it’s warm, filling, and delicious. Add cheese, a rich marinara sauce, and a crispy top, and you’ve got a recipe that makes everyone feel at home.
- Easy to Make: While it may sound like an elaborate dish, Baked Ziti is actually quite simple. It comes together quickly, and most of the cooking is done in the oven. That means you can prep it in advance, pop it in the oven, and relax while it bakes.
- Feeds a Crowd: This dish is perfect for feeding a group of hungry guests. The recipe makes plenty to serve a small crowd, and there’s always enough to go around for seconds. Plus, it’s even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
- Customizable: If you want to make it your own, you can easily adjust this recipe. Add ground beef, sausage, or vegetables to the sauce for extra flavor, or swap in different cheeses. The options are endless!
A Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a birthday party, or a family dinner, this Cheesy Baked Ziti will never disappoint. It’s easy to make, delicious, and guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied. My son’s friends were so impressed that they kept asking for more, and I ended up making a second batch! It’s a great dish to add to your recipe repertoire because it’s not only tasty but also versatile and fun to share.
So, next time you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to please, give this Cheesy Baked Ziti a try. Whether you’re feeding your own family or a group of friends, it’s a dish that’s bound to be a hit—and one that’s easy to love.
ADVERTISEMENT
