
Enhanced Taylor Street Baked Ziti
Dive into the heartwarming layers of Enhanced Taylor Street Baked Ziti, where tender ziti pasta meets a velvety blend of cheeses and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a robust tomato sauce. This beloved Italian-American classic is perfect for family gatherings, evoking memories of cozy dinners and warm conversations. With each forkful, you'll enjoy the gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and a sprinkle of savory Parmesan, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive celebration, this ziti is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings, bringing a little slice of Italy to your table.
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- Ziti pasta (1 pound)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Crushed tomatoes (28 ounces can)
- Ricotta cheese (15 ounces)
- Mozzarella cheese (3 cups, shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
- Fresh basil (optional) (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the prepared tomato sauce. Mix gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring an even layer for a cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Dietary Information
Servings: 8 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 25 minutes • Calories: 450 • Fat: 20g • Carbs: 50g • Protein: 25g • Sodium: 600mg • Sugar: 7g