This classic Italian-American comfort dish brings together al dente ziti pasta, a robust marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta, topped with a golden, bubbly layer of mozzarella and parmesan. Perfectly designed for busy families, this recipe requires minimal cleanup while delivering restaurant-quality flavor. It is a reliable, hearty meal that holds up beautifully in the oven and is ideal for meal prepping ahead of a hectic week.
1 pound ziti pasta
24 ounces high-quality herb-based marinara sauce
15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
0.5 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Boil a large pot of salted water over high heat.
Add the ziti pasta and cook for two minutes less than the package instructions for al dente texture.
Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese.
Stir the mixture gently until every noodle is evenly coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top the dish evenly with the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve warm.
You can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if unavailable. Using whole milk ricotta provides better moisture. Shredding your own mozzarella is recommended for a superior melt. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Find it online: https://itisrecipes.com/easy-baked-ziti-2/