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Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe 5-Ingredient Perfect Dinner Idea

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A quick and comforting baked ziti recipe with just five simple ingredients, featuring creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella for a perfect weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
  • 24 ounces (680g) marinara sauce
  • 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound (450g) of ziti and cook until just al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain well in a colander.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine 15 ounces (425g) of ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Optionally, add a tablespoon of olive oil and stir gently until smooth.
  4. Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large bowl. Add 24 ounces (680g) of marinara sauce and about half of the shredded mozzarella (1 cup/100g). Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly.
  5. In a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spread half of the sauced pasta mixture. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta, then sprinkle with a third of the parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and parmesan. Top everything with the remaining mozzarella.
  6. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Let the baked ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving to help it set.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to avoid mushiness after baking. Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting. Season the ricotta with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. Let the dish rest before serving for easier slicing. Optionally broil for 2 minutes for a golden crust but watch closely to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, cheesy pasta, ricotta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, 5-ingredient recipe, comfort food

Find it online: https://avabake.com/easy-cheesy-baked-ziti-recipe-5-ingredient-perfect-dinner-idea/