Baked Ziti
This Baked Ziti Recipe features al dente pasta, bubbling cheese, and a savory tomato sauce in an easy-to-assemble casserole. A classic Italian comfort food perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta Barilla or De Cecco brands recommended
- 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil cold-pressed for deeper flavor
- 1 medium yellow onion finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes San Marzano or Corto recommended for rich taste
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste gives sauce extra body
- 1 tsp dried oregano or 1 Tbsp fresh, chopped
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese Galbani or organic brand recommended
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese low-moisture, part-skim
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
- fresh parsley optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly coat a 9x13" casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti for 8 minutes until just under al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water if needed.
- In a skillet, sauté onion in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Season with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, and basil in a bowl. Season and mix until smooth.
- Gently mix pasta with sauce. Layer pasta, cheese mixture, remaining pasta, and top with cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil and parsley.
Notes
Salt pasta water generously and slightly undercook pasta for best texture. Add a pinch of sugar if sauce is too acidic. Broil briefly for extra browning on top.