Easy Baked Ziti Flavorful Dinner Recipe in Minutes
Looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea? Try my Easy Baked Ziti! This dish combines ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses into a hearty meal ready in just minutes. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet tasty enough to impress guests. With easy steps and common ingredients, you’ll love making this comfort food staple. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
To make Easy Baked Ziti, you need a few simple ingredients. These will create a creamy and cheesy dish that everyone will love. Here’s what you need:
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Each ingredient plays a role. The ziti pasta gives the dish its shape. Marinara sauce adds rich flavor. Ricotta and mozzarella create a creamy texture. Parmesan brings a salty kick. The egg helps bind everything together. Italian seasoning and garlic powder add depth. Finally, salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
Use fresh basil as a garnish for a pop of color and taste. This recipe is fun and easy! It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Ingredients
To start, cook your ziti pasta. Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta. Follow the package directions and cook until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Next, mix the ricotta cheese and seasonings. In a big bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mix is smooth. This step adds flavor and creaminess to your dish.
Layering the Baked Ziti
Now, create the sauce and cheese mixture. In a separate bowl, blend the marinara sauce with half of the mozzarella cheese. This mix will keep your baked ziti moist and cheesy.
Time to assemble! In a large baking dish, start layering your ingredients. First, add a layer of the sauce and cheese mix at the bottom. Then, place half of the cooked ziti on top. Spread half of the ricotta mix over the pasta and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients. Finish with the leftover mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Baking and Serving
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, cover your baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes. Check for bubbly, golden cheese on top.
Once it’s done, let your baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier. Now you are ready to enjoy a delicious meal!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To ensure perfect al dente pasta, cook the ziti for just a few minutes less than the package states. This keeps it firm and helps it hold up in the oven. Drain the pasta and rinse it quickly under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps the pasta stay firm when baked.
When mixing ingredients, use a large bowl for the ricotta cheese, egg, and seasonings. I like to mix all the ingredients until they are smooth. This way, every bite will have that creamy, cheesy goodness. If you are adding meat, mix it in with the marinara sauce for even distribution.
Serving Suggestions
For ideal accompaniments, serve the baked ziti with garlic bread and a fresh salad. The crisp salad balances the creamy dish well. A light vinaigrette adds a nice touch.
To garnish, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top just before serving. This adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for a richer taste.
Don’t Forget These!
Resting time is key after baking. Let the ziti sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.
Great kitchen tools to use include a large baking dish and a sturdy spatula. A good spatula helps lift out portions without falling apart. Also, consider using parchment paper to line the dish for easy cleanup.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ricotta cheese for cottage cheese. Cottage cheese gives a nice, creamy texture. If you can’t find mozzarella, try using provolone or gouda. Both melt well and add flavor.
To make baked ziti vegetarian, replace meat with veggies like spinach or mushrooms. You can add zucchini or bell peppers for extra crunch. These swaps keep the dish tasty and fun.
Flavor Additions
For meat lovers, add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey. These meats mix well with the sauce. They add protein and depth to your meal. If you want more flavor, try adding Italian sausage for a spicy kick.
Herbs and spices can really change the taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, give a fresh zest. Try adding oregano or thyme for a classic Italian touch.
Different Cooking Methods
You can make baked ziti in a slow cooker. Just layer the ingredients as usual, then cook on low for 4 hours. This method is great for busy days. It keeps your ziti moist and full of flavor.
If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer ziti-style pasta made from rice or corn. The flavors stay the same, and everyone can enjoy it.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your baked ziti fresh, store it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down first. Place it in the fridge right away. This keeps bacteria from growing. For freezing, portion out the ziti into smaller containers. Wrap each container tightly with plastic wrap. This helps prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Methods
You can reheat baked ziti in two ways: the oven or the microwave. The oven gives the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the ziti in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes. If you use the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish. Heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway for even heating.
To keep texture and flavor, add a splash of water before reheating. This helps the pasta stay moist.
Duration for Freshness
Baked ziti lasts about 3-5 days in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage. If it smells sour or looks dry, throw it away. When frozen, it can last up to 3 months. To know if it’s bad, look for ice crystals or freezer burn.
FAQs
How do I make baked ziti without meat?
You can make baked ziti without meat by using only cheese and sauce. Just follow the recipe and skip any meat. The ricotta and mozzarella give it a rich flavor. You can add more herbs for more taste.
Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?
Yes, you can prepare baked ziti in advance. Simply assemble it and cover it tightly. You can store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How do I keep baked ziti from drying out?
To keep baked ziti moist, cover it with foil while baking. This traps steam and keeps the cheese gooey. You can also add a bit more sauce before baking if it looks dry.
What type of sauce is best for baked ziti?
The best sauce for baked ziti is marinara. It gives a classic taste and pairs well with cheese. You can use store-bought or your favorite homemade recipe for extra flavor.
Can I add vegetables to my baked ziti?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a great way to boost nutrition. Try spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the layers for the best taste.
Baked ziti is a comforting dish made with simple ingredients like pasta, marinara, and cheese. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you create this dish perfectly every time. Remember to rest your ziti before serving for the best flavor. You can also customize it to fit your taste with different ingredients and cooking methods. Enjoy your delicious baked ziti with friends or family, and don’t forget to experiment with new flavors!
![- 400g spaghetti - 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced - ½ cup extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving - Freshly cracked black pepper - 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1 lemon (zest and juice) - Salt to taste When making Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, you want to keep it simple. The main ingredients shine through. Start with quality spaghetti, as it forms the base of your dish. I always use 400g for four servings. For that distinct flavor, thinly slice 6 cloves of garlic. The garlic adds a rich aroma and taste as it cooks. Don't forget the olive oil! Use ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil to sauté the garlic. To kick it up a notch, consider some optional ingredients. A teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds heat. Adjust it to fit your spice level. If you love cheese, grated Parmesan is a nice touch for serving. Freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely finish. For freshness, I like to add a cup of chopped parsley. It brings color and taste to the dish. The zest and juice from one lemon brighten the flavors. Salt is essential for enhancing every ingredient. Feel free to adjust the salt to your preference. This recipe is all about balance and freshness. Gather these ingredients for a quick and delicious meal. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. 1. Boil water and salt: Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a generous amount of salt to make it flavorful. Bring it to a rolling boil. 2. Cook until al dente: Add the spaghetti to the boiling water. Stir occasionally. Cook according to package instructions until it is al dente, which means firm to the bite. 3. Reserve pasta water before draining: Before you drain the pasta, remember to save about one cup of that starchy pasta water. It helps to make the sauce creamy later. 1. Heat olive oil in a skillet: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil. Turn the heat to medium. Let the oil warm up but not smoke. 2. Sauté garlic until golden: Add the thinly sliced garlic to the warm oil. Cook it gently for about 2-3 minutes. Watch it closely until it turns golden and fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn. 3. Mix in red pepper flakes: Stir in the red pepper flakes. Let them cook for an extra minute. This step adds a nice kick to the oil. 1. Toss spaghetti with garlic oil: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the garlic oil. Toss it well to coat every strand. 2. Add reserved pasta water: Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water. This helps to keep the spaghetti moist and binds the flavors. 3. Incorporate parsley, lemon, and seasoning: Off the heat, mix in the chopped parsley, lemon zest, and juice. Taste it and adjust the salt if needed. This easy recipe gives you a simple yet flavorful dish. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy every bite of your savory spaghetti aglio e olio! - Avoid overcooking pasta: Cook spaghetti until it's al dente. This means it should be firm when you bite into it. This texture helps the pasta hold up better when you mix it with the sauce. - Importance of seasoning the boiling water: Always add salt to your boiling water. This helps flavor the pasta from the inside. Use about 1-2 tablespoons for every 4 quarts of water. - Timing for sautéing garlic: Add sliced garlic to the oil once it’s hot. Cook it for about 2-3 minutes. This timing helps unlock its rich flavor without going too far. - How to avoid burning garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic as it cooks. If it starts to turn brown too quickly, lower the heat. Burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin your dish. - Presentation tips for a restaurant-style dish: Serve your spaghetti on warmed plates. This keeps the pasta hot longer. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for color. A lemon wedge on the side adds a nice touch. - Pairing options for sides or drinks: A simple green salad pairs well with spaghetti. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a full meal. For drinks, a glass of white wine complements the flavors nicely. For more details on how to make this dish, check out the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can change some ingredients to fit your needs. If you want gluten-free spaghetti, you can find many great options in stores. These work well in this recipe. If you prefer garlic-infused oil, use it instead of plain olive oil. This option adds even more garlic flavor to your dish. Adding vegetables makes this dish even better. Try mixing in fresh spinach or sweet cherry tomatoes. These add color and nutrients. You can also mix in proteins like shrimp or grilled chicken. Both options create a heartier meal and offer more flavors. Fresh herbs can brighten up this dish. Basil or oregano are great choices. Just chop them finely and mix them in at the end. If you like heat, adjust the spice level. Use different types of peppers, like jalapeños or serranos, to switch things up. Each pepper brings its own unique flavor to your spaghetti. For the Full Recipe, check out the complete details! To keep your Spaghetti Aglio e Olio fresh, store it in the fridge. Place the leftover pasta in an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture in and prevents the pasta from drying out. You can also cover the container tightly with plastic wrap. The best containers for storage are glass or BPA-free plastic. Glass containers allow you to see the food inside. They also do not absorb odors. Plastic containers are lightweight and easy to stack. Just make sure they seal well. When it's time to eat your leftovers, you have two options: the microwave or the stove. The microwave is quick. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a lid or damp paper towel to keep moisture in. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Using the stove gives you better results. Add a splash of olive oil or water to a skillet. Heat over low to medium heat. Stir gently until warm. This method helps keep the pasta moist. Yes, you can freeze Spaghetti Aglio e Olio! Freezing is great for making meals ahead of time. First, let the pasta cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. To freeze, follow these steps: 1. Portion the pasta into single servings. 2. Seal each portion tightly in a plastic bag or container. 3. Label the bags with the date for easy tracking. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above. Enjoy your easy dinner later! For the full recipe, check the Full Recipe section above. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio can last in the fridge for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’s best to eat it within this time for the best flavor. Yes, you can make Spaghetti Aglio e Olio ahead of time. Cook the pasta and sauce, then cool them down. You can store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat and combine. This dish is quick to prepare, so making it fresh is great too. You can serve Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with many tasty options. Consider garlic bread for a crunchy side. A simple salad with fresh greens works well too. You might also enjoy antipasto or bruschetta to start your meal. To reheat Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, follow these steps: 1. Place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. 2. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or olive oil to prevent sticking. 3. Stir gently until heated through, about 5 minutes. 4. Serve hot to enjoy the full flavor of the dish. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions for a perfect dish every time! Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is simple yet flavorful. We covered the main and optional ingredients, how to cook and combine them, plus tips for the best results. Variations allow for personal twists, making this dish your own. Proper storage and reheating ensure you enjoy it later. Whether you stick to tradition or experiment, this dish will impress. Enjoy cooking and sharing this tasty meal!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/5a127dfa-b261-495f-ad6e-6f110f891143-768x768.webp)
![- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 8 ounces linguine or spaghetti - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - 1 lemon, zested and juiced - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and black pepper to taste - 1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth - Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) Gather these ingredients for your Easy Shrimp Scampi. Start with fresh shrimp. Look for shrimp that is firm and has a nice pink color. Choose linguine or spaghetti for the pasta. Both work well in this dish. Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor to the sauce. You will need garlic for a fragrant base. Red pepper flakes give a nice kick. Adjust them to your taste. Use a fresh lemon to bring brightness to the dish. Zest it carefully before juicing for the best flavor. Chop some fresh parsley for garnish. It adds color and freshness to your plate. Season with salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Broth adds depth to the sauce. Choose chicken or vegetable broth based on your preference. You can add grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. It melts beautifully and adds creaminess. This simple list of ingredients makes a delightful meal that is quick and easy. For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe]. Enjoy cooking! - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. - Cook linguine or spaghetti until al dente. - Drain and reserve some pasta water. Cooking the pasta is simple. First, add a good amount of salt to the water. This adds flavor. Then, drop in the pasta. Stir it occasionally so it doesn’t stick. The package will tell you how long to cook it. You want it to be firm, but not hard. This is called al dente. Once done, drain the pasta. Don’t forget to save some water for later! - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. - Add shrimp, seasoning them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. - Cook until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Now, let’s cook the shrimp. In a big skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. This adds a nice flavor. Add the shrimp and sprinkle salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes on top. These spices give it a kick! Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. You will see the shrimp change color. They should look pink and opaque when they are ready. This means they are cooked just right! - Sauté garlic in the same skillet until fragrant. - Stir in chicken or vegetable broth, lemon juice, and zest. - Allow sauce to simmer for thickening. Next, we make the tasty sauce. In the same skillet, add more butter and toss in minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1 to 2 minutes. You want it to smell great but not burn. Then, pour in the broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir it well and let it simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce and blend all the flavors. - Return shrimp to skillet along with cooked pasta and parsley. - Mix well, using reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. It’s time to combine everything! Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Next, add the pasta and some chopped parsley. Mix it all together. If the sauce is too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water. This will help the sauce coat the pasta nicely. - Adjust seasoning as desired. - Serve hot with optional grated Parmesan cheese. Finally, taste your dish. You can add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if needed. Serve it hot in a pasta bowl. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. It makes the dish even better! For a nice touch, add extra parsley and a lemon wedge on the side. Enjoy your tasty shrimp scampi! For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions provided earlier. To cook shrimp just right, keep an eye on the timing. Cook shrimp over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. You want them to turn pink and opaque. Too long, and they get rubbery. Avoid high heat, as it cooks them too fast. - Timing: 2-3 minutes is usually perfect. - Temperature: Use medium heat to keep them tender. To prevent rubbery shrimp, don't crowd the pan. If you add too many, they steam instead of sauté. Cook in batches if needed. You can switch up the sauce to match your taste. Want it creamier? Add a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone. If you like more zing, add extra lemon juice or zest. - Modifications: Try cream for richness or add extra lemon for brightness. - Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes to make it milder or hotter based on your preference. Feel free to mix in herbs like basil or oregano for extra flavor. Garnishing makes your dish pop! Fresh parsley adds a nice green touch. A lemon wedge on the side looks great too. - Garnishing Tips: Use parsley and lemon for color. - Serving Dishes: A large pasta bowl makes it look fancy. Consider serving in individual bowls for a more personal touch. It makes every plate feel special. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} If you want to change things up, try using chicken or tofu instead of shrimp. Chicken cooks well in this dish and has a nice flavor. Tofu is great for a vegetarian option and soaks up the sauce well. You can also use different types of pasta, like penne or fettuccine, to give the dish a new twist. Choose the pasta you love most! To boost the taste, consider adding more herbs or spices. Fresh basil or thyme can add a nice touch. If you like some crunch, try adding bell peppers or spinach. These veggies not only add flavor but also pack in extra nutrition. A handful of cherry tomatoes can also brighten the dish and add a pop of color. Making a gluten-free version is easy. Just swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer tasty options that work well. For a dairy-free alternative, you can skip the butter and use olive oil instead. This keeps the dish light while still being delicious. You can also leave out the Parmesan cheese for a completely dairy-free meal. To store leftover shrimp scampi, place it in an airtight container. Use a container that seals well to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. After that, the shrimp may lose its taste and texture. Always make sure the dish cools down before sealing it. You can freeze shrimp scampi if you want to save it for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. For safe reheating, use the microwave or a skillet. If you choose the microwave, heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Stir it often to warm it evenly. If you prefer a skillet, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Heat over low to medium heat, stirring gently. This helps restore freshness and flavor. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. The best shrimp for scampi are large shrimp, usually labeled as "U15" or "16-20." These sizes mean there are 15 or fewer shrimp per pound. They cook quickly and give a nice bite. Fresh shrimp have a sweet taste and bounce when you press them. If you can't find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work well too. Just make sure they are peeled and deveined. Yes, you can make shrimp scampi ahead of time. Cook the shrimp and sauce, then store them separately from the pasta. Let them cool first. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh. You can store them in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the shrimp and sauce in a skillet. Cook the pasta fresh for the best taste. To turn up the heat, add more red pepper flakes. You can also include fresh chili peppers or hot sauce. Another option is to add a pinch of cayenne pepper while cooking. Start with a little, then taste as you go. This way, you can find the right level of spice for your taste. Shrimp scampi can be a healthy option. Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart. The dish does have butter, which adds fat, but you can use less or substitute it with olive oil. Adding fresh herbs and lemon juice boosts flavor without many calories. Enjoying this dish in moderation can be part of a balanced diet. This blog post covered everything you need for perfect shrimp scampi. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for cooking the dish. You can customize it based on your taste and enjoy leftovers. Remember, whether you're using shrimp, chicken, or tofu, this dish is versatile. By following these guidelines, you can create a delightful meal that impresses everyone. Try experimenting with flavors and enjoy the delicious results. Happy cooking!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/c22490f0-4aee-43d3-b983-e60dbbcdc7c4-768x768.webp)