Looking for a hearty and comforting meal? Look no further than this delicious baked ziti recipe! With its rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella, it's sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for a minute or two, until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using), and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well to combine.
In a baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture, then half of the tomato sauce. Repeat with the remaining ziti and tomato sauce. Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated parmesan cheese.Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy this delicious baked ziti recipe as a comforting weeknight meal or as a crowd-pleasing dish at your next dinner party. It's sure to become a family favorite!
