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Classic Baked Ziti with Italian Flavors Recipe

Classic Baked Ziti with Italian Flavors Recipe
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Classic Baked Ziti with Italian Flavors is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish featuring tender ziti pasta baked in a rich marinara sauce layered with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with fresh basil and parsley, this versatile baked pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering authentic Italian flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 ounces ziti pasta

Cheeses

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Sauce & Aromatics

  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling your ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside to cool slightly; this ensures the pasta maintains its texture during baking.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in marinara sauce, add fresh chopped basil and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer gently to blend flavors.
  3. Mix the Cheeses: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a portion of grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped parsley. This cheese mixture adds creaminess and sharp notes to the final dish.
  4. Assemble the Ziti: In a large mixing bowl, fold cooked pasta into the simmering sauce. Layer half of this saucy pasta in a greased baking dish, dollop and spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and mozzarella.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Place the assembled dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.

Notes

  • Under-cook the pasta slightly since it will continue cooking in the oven and stay perfectly tender.
  • Use fresh basil and parsley to elevate the flavor beyond dried versions.
  • Layer cheeses evenly to get gooey, melty bites throughout.
  • Allow the baked ziti to rest after baking for optimal sliceability and flavor infusion.
  • Customize your sauce by adding a splash of red wine or a pinch of sugar for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, Italian pasta bake, cheesy pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, marinara, comfort food, family dinner, easy weeknight meal

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/classic-baked-ziti-with-italian-flavors-recipe/