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Comforting Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

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A nostalgic and easy baked ziti recipe featuring a luscious blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses combined with a flavorful marinara sauce. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) ziti pasta
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (200 g)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (250 g)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 4 cups marinara sauce (950 ml)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • A handful fresh basil, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease the baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz (340 g) ziti pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté 1 finely chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour 4 cups (950 ml) marinara sauce into the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir in chopped fresh basil, 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Add 1 cup (250 g) ricotta cheese and 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan (1/4 cup / 25 g) on top. Layer with the remaining pasta mixture, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispier top, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  8. Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta before baking to avoid mushiness. Stir gently when mixing ricotta to keep it creamy. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor. Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden crust but watch closely to prevent burning. Sauce can be simmered longer if too watery before assembling.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, three cheese baked ziti, easy baked pasta, family meal, comfort food, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, marinara sauce

Find it online: https://zoeplate.com/comforting-baked-ziti-with-three-cheeses-easy-homemade-recipe-for-family-meals/