Baked Ziti with Mozzarella

I first discovered baked ziti during a chilly autumn evening when I needed something hearty and soul-warming. The blend of bubbling cheese and fragrant marinara immediately felt like coming home.

I remember the first time unexpected guests showed up, and this baked ziti saved the day—effortless to pull together yet impressive enough to make everyone feel special.

Ingredients

• Ziti pasta: I always pick the traditional tube-shaped ziti because it holds the sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful.
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds a luscious texture that balances the tangy marinara perfectly.
• Mozzarella cheese: I use shredded mozzarella for that gooey, melty topping everyone loves.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh for a sharp, nutty punch that brightens the dish.
• Marinara sauce: Homemade or store-bought, I look for sauces with fresh herbs to deepen the flavor.
• Seasonings: Fresh basil and garlic make all the difference; I always use fresh when possible.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven and grease your baking dish so everything will cook evenly and nothing sticks. The smell of garlic sizzling as you mix your ingredients is the first hint of magic.

Cook the Pasta:

Boil ziti until just al dente; it should be tender yet firm to hold up under baking. Drain and set it aside to cool slightly.

Mix the Cheesy Filling:

Fold ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and herbs together. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant, bursting with fresh basil and garlic aromas.

Layer It Up:

Spoon marinara sauce on the bottom, then alternate layers of pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce. This layering builds flavor and texture with every bite.

Bake to Perfection:

Cover with foil and bake until bubbly, then uncover to let the cheese brown beautifully, filling your kitchen with irresistible smells.

Rest and Serve:

Let it rest so flavors meld and the cheesy top sets slightly. Garnish with fresh basil to brighten it all up.

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After the first time I served this dish at a family gathering, it quickly became a treasured comfort food that sparks warm memories every time we eat it together.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers taste great reheated, but adding a splash of marinara before warming keeps everything moist. I like to sprinkle fresh basil on top right before serving to brighten flavors.

When You're Missing Something

If you forget an ingredient, don’t worry—extra Parmesan or a pinch of dried oregano can save the day and keep the dish flavorful without missing a beat.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to balance the hearty richness.

• Always offer extra freshly grated Parmesan at the table for cheese lovers.
• If you have time, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a nice touch of heat.
• Leftover baked ziti also freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

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Thanks for cooking along with me—hope this baked ziti brings you as much joy and comfort as it’s brought me over the years.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Ziti pasta works best due to its tubular shape, which holds sauce and cheese well during baking.

→ Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, both homemade and store-bought marinara sauces provide great flavor depending on your preference.

→ How do I know when the dish is perfectly baked?

When the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly, your baked ziti is ready to be removed from the oven.

→ Is it possible to prepare this in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the layers ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What are good additions to enhance flavor?

Sautéed spinach, roasted vegetables, or Italian sausage stirred into the sauce add wonderful variety and depth.