ziti pasta bake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ziti pasta bake recipe

I have been making ziti pasta bake for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a staple in Italian cuisine, and its origins date back to the early 20th century in Italy. The name ‘ziti’ refers to the type of pasta used in this recipe, which is long, thin tubes of pasta.

When cooked al dente, these tubes hold onto the sauce and cheese perfectly, making each bite a delight. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, yet it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. The key to making a great ziti pasta bake lies in the technique of layering the pasta, sauce, and cheese.

I like to use a mixture of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, especially when we’re making this dish.

They get to help with measuring out the ingredients and mixing everything together. It’s a fun way to spend time together as a family. I’ve experimented with different variations of this recipe over the years, but the classic version remains my favorite.

It’s a comforting dish that never fails to satisfy our appetites. I’ve even made it for potlucks and parties, where it’s always devoured quickly by our guests.

Ziti Pasta Bake

4.9 from 861 votes

A comforting and hearty baked pasta dish featuring ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz ziti pasta
Salt

For the Sauce

1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup water
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt

For the Cheese Layer

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
3Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5In a mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, water, oregano, basil, and salt.
Mix well.
6In a separate bowl, mix mozzarella and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
7In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the sauce mixture, and spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the sauce.
8Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese.
9Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
10Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
11Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
12This allows the pasta to absorb some of the sauce and makes it easier to serve.
13Slice and serve the ziti pasta bake hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat ziti for a healthier option. Add cooked ground meat or vegetables to the sauce for extra protein or nutrients.

This ziti pasta bake recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it reheats – simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until hot and bubbly.

You can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ziti Pasta Bake

What type of pasta should I use for ziti pasta bake?

You can use either traditional ziti or penne pasta for this recipe.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook it al dente before adding it to the baking dish.

Can I make ziti pasta bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe up to a day in advance by assembling all the ingredients and refrigerating them until you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?

You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I freeze ziti pasta bake?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe after baking for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat ziti pasta bake after freezing?

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

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