Delicious One-Pot Baked Ziti Pasta Recipe

This one-pot baked ziti is a family favorite, combining pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese into a deliciously satisfying meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal cleanup and is ready in under an hour.

The recipe is straightforward and can be customized with your choice of proteins or vegetables. Enjoy a comforting dish that everyone will love.

Overview of Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. With its layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The bubbling, golden top and the aroma wafting from the oven create an inviting atmosphere that makes it hard to resist.

Ingredients That Make It Special

The key components of baked ziti include ziti pasta, a rich marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan come together to create a creamy, cheesy experience that enhances each bite. Seasonings like Italian herbs and garlic powder add depth, making this dish a flavorful delight.

Preparation and Cooking Process

Preparing baked ziti is straightforward and can be done in under an hour. Start by cooking the ziti until it's al dente, then combine it with the marinara sauce and cheeses in a single pot. This one-pot approach minimizes cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Once combined, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top it with more cheese, and bake until bubbly. The result is a dish that is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dining experience, serve baked ziti with a side of garlic bread and a glass of red wine. The garlic bread complements the dish beautifully, providing a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta. A fresh salad can also be a great addition, adding a refreshing element to the meal.

Garnishing for Presentation

Garnishing baked ziti with fresh basil leaves adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness. The vibrant green basil contrasts nicely with the golden cheese and rich marinara, making the dish visually appealing. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top before serving can also enhance the flavor and presentation.

Why Baked Ziti is a Family Favorite

Baked ziti is not just a meal; it's a dish that brings people together. Its comforting nature makes it ideal for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize it with various proteins or vegetables make it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Easy One-Pot Baked Ziti Recipe

This baked ziti features ziti pasta cooked in a rich marinara sauce, layered with mozzarella and ricotta cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces ziti pasta
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine Ingredients: In the same pot, add the marinara sauce, cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: 400kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

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