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Ultimate Baked Ziti Recipe

Ultimate Baked Ziti Recipe

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prinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan.

  • Repeat the layers: add the rest of the pasta, top with the remaining ricotta mixture, then cover with the rest of the sauce. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
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    • 5. Bake:

    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

    6. Let It Rest:

    Once the baked ziti is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes for easier cutting and serving.

    7. Garnish and Serve:

    Garnish the baked ziti with fresh basil or parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

    Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti:

    1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, make sure to cook it to al dente—slightly firm to the bite—so it doesn’t become too soft during baking.
    2. Make It Ahead: Baked ziti is a perfect make-ahead meal. You can assemble it a day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
    3. Add Protein: If you want to boost the protein, try adding cooked ground turkey, sausage, or even chicken to the sauce.
    4. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.
    5. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan will add depth and variety to the dish.

    Serving Suggestions:

    • Garlic Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to baked ziti. It’s perfect for dipping into the sauce and soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
    • Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the baked ziti. Try mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy balsamic dressing.
    • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant complement the hearty pasta dish, adding color and nutrition.

    Conclusion:

    The Ultimate Baked Ziti is a perfect combination of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta—an irresistible dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. It’s easy to make, can be prepped ahead of time, and is sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a weeknight dinner, this baked ziti recipe is a surefire way to satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds.

    Get ready to dig into a comforting plate of the ultimate baked ziti—a dish that’s destined to become a family favorite! 🍝🧀