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Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti

Ultimate Cheesy Baked Ziti recipe that is comforting and perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • baking dish

Method
 

  1. Cook the ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Add marinara sauce, season with salt and pepper, and let simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and a bit of parmesan in a bowl.
  5. In a baking dish, layer pasta, sauce, and cheese mixture. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
  6. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 21gFat: 24g

Notes

Feel free to customize the recipe with additional ingredients such as cooked Italian sausage, or various cheeses for a unique twist.

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