Baked Ziti with Parmesan

Baked Ziti with Parmesan

Indulge in the comforting layers of Baked Ziti, a beloved Italian-American dish that combines al dente ziti pasta with rich marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, and a finishing touch of savory Parmesan. This baked delight is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, bringing warmth and satisfaction to every bite. Its origins can be traced back to the southern regions of Italy, where pasta dishes are a staple, but it has evolved into a quintessential comfort food in the United States.

Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • Ziti pasta (1 pound)
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Marinara sauce (4 cups)
  • Mozzarella cheese (3 cups, shredded)
  • Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)
  • Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish))
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and 1.5 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
  6. Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Dietary Information

Servings: 6 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 50g • Protein: 20g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 6g