Easy One-Pan Baked Ziti
Looking for a simple and delicious one-pan meal to make for dinner tonight? Try this Easy One-Pan Baked Ziti recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot with the pasta. Mix well.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Q: Can I add meat to this dish?
- Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
A: Absolutely! Cooked ground beef or sausage would be a great addition.
A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready.
Helpful tips:
- Try adding some sautéed veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a crispy top, broil the dish for a few minutes at the end of cooking.
Expert Secrets:
- Make sure to properly season the pasta and sauce mixture to avoid a bland dish.
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.