![- 12 oz ziti pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color) - 1 zucchini, diced - 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste When I cook baked ziti, I love to gather all my ingredients first. This makes the process smooth and fun. You start with ziti pasta, which is perfect for holding sauces. I use olive oil to sauté my veggies and give them flavor. Onions and garlic are a must. They add a sweet taste and great aroma. I pick any color bell pepper, as they all work well. Zucchini adds a nice crunch and color to the dish. The marinara sauce is the heart of this meal. I always choose a good quality jar for rich flavor. Dried oregano and basil give it that classic Italian taste, while red pepper flakes can add a little heat. For that creamy texture, I use ricotta cheese. Then, I load it with mozzarella and Parmesan for cheesy goodness. Finally, I top it with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to make every bite delicious. You can find the full recipe for these tasty ingredients and instructions in the [Full Recipe]. - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cook ziti pasta until al dente; drain and set aside. - In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. - Add 1 diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. - Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 diced zucchini. - Cook for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender. - Pour in 1 jar of marinara sauce and mix in seasoning. - Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt. - If you like heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. - Let it simmer for 5 minutes for the flavors to blend. - In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the vegetable sauce and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. - Layer half of this mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. - Sprinkle half of 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over it. - Add the rest of the ziti mixture and top with more mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. - Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves. - For the full recipe, check the ingredients section. For a tasty baked ziti, fresh herbs make a big difference. Use basil or oregano to elevate your dish. They add bright flavors that dry herbs can't match. Also, be careful not to overcook the pasta. Cook it just until al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven and stay firm. You can switch up the cheese for a fun twist. Fontina or Gouda can add a unique taste. Both melt well and offer different flavors. To make your baked ziti cheesier, mix different cheeses. Try adding more mozzarella or a sprinkle of cream cheese for a rich texture. You can prep your baked ziti in advance. Just assemble it and cover it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge. This helps keep the layers intact. To reheat, cover it with foil. This keeps the cheese from burning while warming. {{image_2}} For a meat-free meal, swap out meat for hearty mushrooms or lentils. These ingredients add a rich taste. You can also use eggplant or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition. To add more veggies, consider mixing in diced carrots, broccoli, or peas. These choices not only add color but also make your baked ziti healthier. If you love meat, consider adding ground beef, sausage, or turkey. Brown the meat before mixing it with the sauce. This step enhances the flavor. You can also add diced pepperoni or cooked chicken for extra zest. Mixing meats can give a rich, varied taste. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before layering it in the dish. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free ziti or another gluten-free pasta. Quinoa or rice noodles can work well too. Adjust the cooking time as needed to get the right texture. When baking, cover the dish tightly to keep moisture in. This helps the pasta cook evenly and stay tender. To keep your baked ziti fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps avoid moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Baked ziti lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing. This way, you prevent condensation from making it soggy. Freezing baked ziti is easy and great for meal prep. First, let it cool down. Then, cut it into portions for easier thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This helps protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This keeps the cheese melty and the pasta tender. You can serve baked ziti as a main dish or at parties. It pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For a special touch, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top. A side of roasted veggies can also make for a colorful plate. Baked ziti is great for family dinners or gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser. Baked ziti is quick and easy. You spend about 15 minutes to prep. The cooking time is around 25 minutes covered and 15 to 20 minutes uncovered. This means you can serve a delicious meal in about 50 minutes. Yes, you can skip the ricotta. Cream cheese or cottage cheese works well instead. You can also mix in some sour cream for creaminess. These options keep your baked ziti tasty and rich without missing out. Ziti pasta is the classic choice. It has a smooth surface that holds sauce well. You can also use penne or rigatoni. These shapes add fun to your dish and also work great. Absolutely! You can add ground beef, sausage, or turkey. Just cook the meat before mixing it in. For a smokier flavor, try adding bacon or pancetta. Meat brings protein and heartiness to your baked ziti. If you want the full recipe, check it out for more tips! Baked ziti is a simple, tasty dish. You can make it with fresh veggies or meats. Use different cheeses for fun flavors. Remember to store leftovers properly for later. Cooking can be easy and enjoyable. With these steps, you can impress friends and family. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of baked ziti!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/e29a5b84-e84e-46ca-8550-28401efe6a4a.webp)
Are you ready for a cozy dinner that packs a punch of flavor? My Baked Ziti is not only simple to make, but it’s also a dish that everyone will love. Picture layers of ziti pasta, rich marinara, and creamy cheeses all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, follow my easy steps. Let’s dive in and create this comforting meal together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
When I cook baked ziti, I love to gather all my ingredients first. This makes the process smooth and fun. You start with ziti pasta, which is perfect for holding sauces. I use olive oil to sauté my veggies and give them flavor.
Onions and garlic are a must. They add a sweet taste and great aroma. I pick any color bell pepper, as they all work well. Zucchini adds a nice crunch and color to the dish.
The marinara sauce is the heart of this meal. I always choose a good quality jar for rich flavor. Dried oregano and basil give it that classic Italian taste, while red pepper flakes can add a little heat.
For that creamy texture, I use ricotta cheese. Then, I load it with mozzarella and Parmesan for cheesy goodness. Finally, I top it with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to make every bite delicious.
You can find the full recipe for these tasty ingredients and instructions in the [Full Recipe].
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Cook ziti pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
Cooking Steps
– In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
– Add 1 diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes.
– Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 diced zucchini.
– Cook for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender.
– Pour in 1 jar of marinara sauce and mix in seasoning.
– Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt.
– If you like heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
– Let it simmer for 5 minutes for the flavors to blend.
Assembling and Baking
– In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the vegetable sauce and 1 cup of ricotta cheese.
– Layer half of this mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
– Sprinkle half of 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over it.
– Add the rest of the ziti mixture and top with more mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
– Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
– Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
– Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves.
– For the full recipe, check the ingredients section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Baked Ziti
For a tasty baked ziti, fresh herbs make a big difference. Use basil or oregano to elevate your dish. They add bright flavors that dry herbs can’t match. Also, be careful not to overcook the pasta. Cook it just until al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven and stay firm.
Cheese Variations
You can switch up the cheese for a fun twist. Fontina or Gouda can add a unique taste. Both melt well and offer different flavors. To make your baked ziti cheesier, mix different cheeses. Try adding more mozzarella or a sprinkle of cream cheese for a rich texture.
Making It Ahead
You can prep your baked ziti in advance. Just assemble it and cover it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge. This helps keep the layers intact. To reheat, cover it with foil. This keeps the cheese from burning while warming.
Variations
Vegetarian Options
For a meat-free meal, swap out meat for hearty mushrooms or lentils. These ingredients add a rich taste. You can also use eggplant or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition. To add more veggies, consider mixing in diced carrots, broccoli, or peas. These choices not only add color but also make your baked ziti healthier.
Meat Lovers Version
If you love meat, consider adding ground beef, sausage, or turkey. Brown the meat before mixing it with the sauce. This step enhances the flavor. You can also add diced pepperoni or cooked chicken for extra zest. Mixing meats can give a rich, varied taste. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before layering it in the dish.
Gluten-Free Alternative
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free ziti or another gluten-free pasta. Quinoa or rice noodles can work well too. Adjust the cooking time as needed to get the right texture. When baking, cover the dish tightly to keep moisture in. This helps the pasta cook evenly and stay tender.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To keep your baked ziti fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps avoid moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Baked ziti lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing. This way, you prevent condensation from making it soggy.
Freezing Baked Ziti
Freezing baked ziti is easy and great for meal prep. First, let it cool down. Then, cut it into portions for easier thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This helps protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This keeps the cheese melty and the pasta tender.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve baked ziti as a main dish or at parties. It pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For a special touch, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top. A side of roasted veggies can also make for a colorful plate. Baked ziti is great for family dinners or gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook baked ziti?
Baked ziti is quick and easy. You spend about 15 minutes to prep. The cooking time is around 25 minutes covered and 15 to 20 minutes uncovered. This means you can serve a delicious meal in about 50 minutes.
Can I make baked ziti without ricotta?
Yes, you can skip the ricotta. Cream cheese or cottage cheese works well instead. You can also mix in some sour cream for creaminess. These options keep your baked ziti tasty and rich without missing out.
What type of pasta is best for baked ziti?
Ziti pasta is the classic choice. It has a smooth surface that holds sauce well. You can also use penne or rigatoni. These shapes add fun to your dish and also work great.
Can I add meat to baked ziti?
Absolutely! You can add ground beef, sausage, or turkey. Just cook the meat before mixing it in. For a smokier flavor, try adding bacon or pancetta. Meat brings protein and heartiness to your baked ziti. If you want the full recipe, check it out for more tips!
Baked ziti is a simple, tasty dish. You can make it with fresh veggies or meats. Use different cheeses for fun flavors. Remember to store leftovers properly for later.
Cooking can be easy and enjoyable. With these steps, you can impress friends and family. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of baked ziti!
![- 12 oz ziti pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color) - 1 zucchini, diced - 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 cup ricotta cheese - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste When I cook baked ziti, I love to gather all my ingredients first. This makes the process smooth and fun. You start with ziti pasta, which is perfect for holding sauces. I use olive oil to sauté my veggies and give them flavor. Onions and garlic are a must. They add a sweet taste and great aroma. I pick any color bell pepper, as they all work well. Zucchini adds a nice crunch and color to the dish. The marinara sauce is the heart of this meal. I always choose a good quality jar for rich flavor. Dried oregano and basil give it that classic Italian taste, while red pepper flakes can add a little heat. For that creamy texture, I use ricotta cheese. Then, I load it with mozzarella and Parmesan for cheesy goodness. Finally, I top it with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to make every bite delicious. You can find the full recipe for these tasty ingredients and instructions in the [Full Recipe]. - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). - Cook ziti pasta until al dente; drain and set aside. - In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. - Add 1 diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. - Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 diced zucchini. - Cook for 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender. - Pour in 1 jar of marinara sauce and mix in seasoning. - Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt. - If you like heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. - Let it simmer for 5 minutes for the flavors to blend. - In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the vegetable sauce and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. - Layer half of this mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. - Sprinkle half of 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese over it. - Add the rest of the ziti mixture and top with more mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. - Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. - Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. - Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves. - For the full recipe, check the ingredients section. For a tasty baked ziti, fresh herbs make a big difference. Use basil or oregano to elevate your dish. They add bright flavors that dry herbs can't match. Also, be careful not to overcook the pasta. Cook it just until al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven and stay firm. You can switch up the cheese for a fun twist. Fontina or Gouda can add a unique taste. Both melt well and offer different flavors. To make your baked ziti cheesier, mix different cheeses. Try adding more mozzarella or a sprinkle of cream cheese for a rich texture. You can prep your baked ziti in advance. Just assemble it and cover it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge. This helps keep the layers intact. To reheat, cover it with foil. This keeps the cheese from burning while warming. {{image_2}} For a meat-free meal, swap out meat for hearty mushrooms or lentils. These ingredients add a rich taste. You can also use eggplant or spinach to boost flavor and nutrition. To add more veggies, consider mixing in diced carrots, broccoli, or peas. These choices not only add color but also make your baked ziti healthier. If you love meat, consider adding ground beef, sausage, or turkey. Brown the meat before mixing it with the sauce. This step enhances the flavor. You can also add diced pepperoni or cooked chicken for extra zest. Mixing meats can give a rich, varied taste. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before layering it in the dish. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free ziti or another gluten-free pasta. Quinoa or rice noodles can work well too. Adjust the cooking time as needed to get the right texture. When baking, cover the dish tightly to keep moisture in. This helps the pasta cook evenly and stay tender. To keep your baked ziti fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps avoid moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Baked ziti lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing. This way, you prevent condensation from making it soggy. Freezing baked ziti is easy and great for meal prep. First, let it cool down. Then, cut it into portions for easier thawing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This helps protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This keeps the cheese melty and the pasta tender. You can serve baked ziti as a main dish or at parties. It pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. For a special touch, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top. A side of roasted veggies can also make for a colorful plate. Baked ziti is great for family dinners or gatherings, making it a crowd-pleaser. Baked ziti is quick and easy. You spend about 15 minutes to prep. The cooking time is around 25 minutes covered and 15 to 20 minutes uncovered. This means you can serve a delicious meal in about 50 minutes. Yes, you can skip the ricotta. Cream cheese or cottage cheese works well instead. You can also mix in some sour cream for creaminess. These options keep your baked ziti tasty and rich without missing out. Ziti pasta is the classic choice. It has a smooth surface that holds sauce well. You can also use penne or rigatoni. These shapes add fun to your dish and also work great. Absolutely! You can add ground beef, sausage, or turkey. Just cook the meat before mixing it in. For a smokier flavor, try adding bacon or pancetta. Meat brings protein and heartiness to your baked ziti. If you want the full recipe, check it out for more tips! Baked ziti is a simple, tasty dish. You can make it with fresh veggies or meats. Use different cheeses for fun flavors. Remember to store leftovers properly for later. Cooking can be easy and enjoyable. With these steps, you can impress friends and family. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking! Enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness of baked ziti!](https://grilledflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/e29a5b84-e84e-46ca-8550-28401efe6a4a-300x300.webp)