Slow Cooker Beef Stew is the ultimate comfort food.
Three Cheese Baked Ziti is a delicious pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with ziti pasta, baked to perfection for a comforting meal.
- Author: Elisa
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In the bowl with the cheese mixture, add the cooked ziti pasta and the tomato sauce. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Consider broiling for a crispy top if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Three Cheese Baked Ziti, pasta, comfort food, Italian dish