Easy Day Ziti Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy pasta dish but don’t have much time to spare, Easy Day Ziti is the answer. This baked ziti recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavor. It features hearty ziti pasta coated in a savory marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese, and baked to perfection. This meal is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 pound ziti pasta (or any short pasta like penne)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce with ricotta cheese. Stir until well mixed. Season the sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Ziti:In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the marinara-ricotta sauce mixture until the pasta is well coated. Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the sauced pasta into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Add Cheese:Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Then add half of the grated parmesan cheese. Add another layer of the remaining pasta mixture on top of the cheese, and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
5. Bake:Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. After 20-25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden.
6. Serve and Garnish:Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

Optional Variations

• Meat: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the sauce for a heartier dish.
• Vegetarian: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

(Approximate values based on standard ingredients)

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and specific measurements.

Benefits

• Balanced Nutrition: This dish provides a good mix of carbohydrates from pasta, protein from cheese, and healthy fats from olive oil.
• Rich in Calcium: The mozzarella and ricotta cheeses add calcium to your diet, which supports strong bones and teeth.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sauce and cheese combinations to suit your tastes, making it easy to tweak this dish to your preferences.

History of Baked Ziti

Ziti is a type of pasta that originated in southern Italy. It’s traditionally served in a variety of ways, including in baked casseroles like this one. Baked ziti became popular in the United States, especially in Italian-American communities. The dish’s simplicity and heartiness made it a family favorite, particularly for large gatherings or Sunday dinners.

Conclusion

Easy Day Ziti is a perfect dish for anyone who loves cheesy, comforting pasta. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it ideal for busy nights or casual family dinners. Plus, it’s highly adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this classic baked ziti recipe!

Let me know if you’d like any additional variations or tips!