Cheesy Baked Ziti with Mild Marinara Sauce

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Mild Marinara Sauce is a staple comfort dish that combines tender ziti pasta with a rich mix of creamy cheeses and a flavorful marinara sauce. This dish is simple to prepare and brings warmth to any table. The gratifying blend of melted cheese and tangy marinara makes this meal both hearty and fulfilling. Whether you need a quick meal for a weeknight or a delightful dish for a social gathering, Cheesy Baked Ziti offers a reliable choice that will satisfy any appetite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tsp italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
4. Gently fold the cooked ziti pasta into the cheese mixture until the pasta is evenly coated.
5. Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Carefully spoon the pasta and cheese mixture over the marinara sauce in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the pasta, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses over the top of the sauce.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it’s sealed around the edges, and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Allow the baked ziti to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to help set the cheese.

Keywords: Cheese, Baked, Marinara, Ziti, Italian

Spice Rack: Italian Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Black Pepper

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Chopped is powered by people alongside Cookie, our AI sous-chef. Every cook and kitchen is unique, so be sure to check seasoning, temperature, and cook time as you go. Consult packaging for dietary information and always follow food safety guidelines.

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