Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole

Looking for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love? This Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines hearty pasta with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a flavorful marinara sauce. It’s super easy to prepare and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. With layers of cheese and pasta, it’s a dish that guarantees smiles all around the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and melting mozzarella creates a rich flavor experience that will satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

2 cups ziti pasta
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked ziti to the sauce mixture and stir to combine until the pasta is well coated.
In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the ziti mixture evenly across the bottom.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the first layer of ziti.
Add half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
Repeat layering with the remaining ziti mixture, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top of the casserole.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
If you prefer a meatier casserole, you can mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the ziti mixture.
Be generous with the cheese! Increasing the amount of mozzarella or Parmesan adds to the richness of the dish.

Serving Ideas

This cheesy delight is fantastic on its own but can also be served with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. Consider pairing it with a nice glass of red wine for an indulgent evening.

Storage Guidance

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual servings.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that your family will ask for again and again. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the joy it brings to your dining experience! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole

A delicious and comforting casserole combining ziti pasta, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Serving Size 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups ziti pasta Cook according to package instructions.
2 cups marinara sauce Use your favorite brand.
2 cups ricotta cheese Can be substituted with cottage cheese if desired.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese More cheese can be added for richness.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated for better flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil To drizzle on top before baking.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Can be adjusted to taste.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Or use fresh herbs if available.
to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to your preference.
to taste Fresh basil for garnish Optional, for added freshness.

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked ziti to the sauce mixture and stir to combine until the pasta is well coated.

Layering

In a greased casserole dish, layer half of the ziti mixture evenly across the bottom.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the first layer of ziti.
Add half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella.
Repeat layering with the remaining ziti mixture, followed by the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Drizzle olive oil evenly over the top of the casserole.

Baking

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. If you prefer a meatier casserole, mix in cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the ziti mixture. Be generous with the cheese to enhance the richness of the dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.