Baked Ziti with Cheese and Herbs
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty baked ziti dish, with its bubbling layers of pasta, melted cheese, and savory tomato sauce. This recipe for Baked Ziti with Cheese and Herbs is a crowd-pleasing classic that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a creamy, decadent base, while the blend of fresh herbs lends a bright, aromatic touch. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this baked ziti is sure to satisfy.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This baked ziti recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the flavors are incredibly well-balanced, with the richness of the cheese complemented by the acidity of the tomato sauce and the fragrance of the herbs. The texture is also spot-on, with a creamy interior and a crisp, golden-brown top.
Another great thing about this recipe is its versatility. It can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs, and the make-ahead options make it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Plus, the classic comfort food appeal of baked ziti is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Baked Ziti with Cheese and Herbs ❓
• 1 jar (24 oz.) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this baked ziti is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of ziti, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates the classic Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made baked ziti recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Baked Ziti with Cheese and Herbs Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, the Parmesan, garlic, basil, parsley, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 3: Spread 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add the cooked ziti and toss to coat with the sauce.
• Step 4: Spread the ricotta mixture over the ziti, then top with the remaining marinara sauce and the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
• Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
• Total time: 40-45 minutes
Compared to traditional lasagna, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this baked ziti saves you 20% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fat: 16g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
These baked ziti provide approximately 20% of your daily protein requirements and 15% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute a portion of the ziti with spiralized zucchini or other low-carb vegetable noodles.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with your favorite dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Added protein: Stir in cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the baked ziti.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crisp white wine or a light red, such as a Chianti or Montepulciano, for a sophisticated pairing.
• Complement the baked ziti with a hearty minestrone or Caesar salad for a satisfying and well-balanced dinner.
• For a family-friendly meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables and a side of garlic knots or breadsticks.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter with slices of the baked ziti, accompanied by marinated olives, roasted red peppers, and crusty bread.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Skimping on the cheese: The perfect baked ziti should have a generous amount of cheese to create the creamy, indulgent texture. Don’t be afraid to use the full amounts called for in the recipe.
• Forgetting to season: Proper seasoning with salt and pepper is crucial to bring out the full flavor of the dish. Taste and adjust as needed.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes before serving helps the layers set and prevents a messy, runny texture when slicing.
• Overcooking in the oven: Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid a dry, crumbly top. The ziti should be hot and bubbly, but not browned to the point of drying out.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These baked ziti retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Assemble the ziti in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked ziti to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the ziti in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make the baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can assemble the ziti, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked ziti for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Can I substitute a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is the traditional choice, you can use other short, tubular pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for the specific pasta you use.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free. Replace the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, such as cashew-based or almond-based cheese products. These can be found at most grocery stores or specialty health food markets.
Why is my baked ziti dry or crunchy on top?
If your baked ziti has a dry or crunchy top, it’s likely due to overcooking in the oven. Be sure to keep an eye on the baking time and remove the dish from the oven as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly. Covering the dish with foil can also help prevent the top from drying out.
Can I add any additional ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! This baked ziti recipe is very versatile and lends itself well to customization. You can mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage, sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or even layer in some pre-cooked meatballs. Just be mindful of not overstuffing the dish, as it can affect the cooking time and texture.
Conclusion
These baked ziti with cheese and herbs represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion meal, they’re sure to impress with their creamy, cheesy interior and crisp, golden-brown top. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these baked ziti demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly and baking. So gather your loved ones and indulge in the comforting, delicious goodness of this classic Italian-inspired dish.
