Enhanced Taylor Street Baked Ziti

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the 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 cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  8. 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