Easy Baked Ziti Recipe: 15-Minute Cheesy Comfort Magic
A simple and delicious baked ziti recipe perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti according to package directions. Drain.
- Mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Combine cooked ziti with marinara sauce.
- Layer half the ziti in a baking dish. Spread ricotta mixture on top.
- Add remaining ziti and top with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta.
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.
- Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.