Easy One-Pan Baked Ziti

Who says delicious meals have to be complicated? This Easy One-Pan Baked Ziti recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting and satisfying dish without all the fuss.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ziti pasta
• 1 jar of marinara sauce
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain any excess water and return it to the skillet.
4. Add the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Mix until well combined.
5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta.
6. Cover the skillet with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

Calories: 380
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Protein: 22g

Popular questions:

• Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni for this recipe.

• Can I add meat to this dish?

Absolutely! Cooked ground beef or Italian sausage would be a delicious addition.

• Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover baked ziti in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

• Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Definitely! Fresh basil or oregano would add a vibrant flavor to the dish.

• How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply omit the meat and use vegetable stock in place of beef or chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

Helpful tips:

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Try using a blend of different cheeses such as provolone or fontina for a unique twist.
• Top the baked ziti with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color.
• If you prefer a crispy top, broil the dish for the last few minutes of cooking.

Expert Secrets:

• Be sure to generously season the pasta water with salt to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Mixing in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream can add richness to the sauce.
• Allow the baked ziti to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.