Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe

If you are craving a heartwarming, utterly delicious pasta dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile, look no further than this Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe. This classic comfort food layers tender pasta with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all melded together in a robust marinara sauce. Every bite is a delightful harmony of creamy, cheesy, and saucy goodness that’s perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a hungry crowd. Trust me, once you dig into this Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe, it will become your go-to meal for those moments when you want something both simple and spectacular.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each item plays its part in building flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheesy pull you love in baked ziti.

• 1 pound ziti pasta: The perfect shape for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps prevent the pasta from sticking and adds a hint of richness.
• 3 cups marinara sauce: A bright, tangy tomato base that brings the whole dish together.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds luscious texture and balances the flavors.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that signature gooey topping.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty punch that deepens the cheese flavor.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture to keep everything silky and cohesive.
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the dish with classic Mediterranean notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: The simple seasoning duo to enhance every component.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when serving.

How to Make Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting your oven ready early ensures a smooth flow once your ziti is assembled and ready to bake.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti until it’s just al dente. Drain it well, then toss with olive oil to keep the noodles from sticking together—this step is essential for texture and ease of layering later.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, one cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth and uniform. This cheesy blend is the creamy heart of your baked ziti.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked ziti with the marinara sauce, ensuring every noodle is lightly coated with that vibrant red tomato goodness. This layer provides moisture and flavor that perfectly complements the cheeses.

Step 5: Layer the Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and begin by spreading half of the sauced pasta evenly on the bottom. Next, dollop half of the cheese mixture over the pasta and gently spread it to cover. Add the rest of the ziti on top and finish by spreading the remaining cheese mixture over it.

Step 6: Top with Mozzarella and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the top for that golden, bubbly finish. Cover the dish tightly with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning and bake for 20 minutes.

Step 7: Brown the Cheese

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is gloriously bubbly and browned to perfection. This step creates the irresistible crust we all crave.

Step 8: Rest and Garnish

Once out of the oven, let the ziti rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the layers to settle for easier slicing and enhances the texture. Add fresh basil on top for a fragrant and colorful finishing touch if you like.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Slice into warm, cheesy portions and savor the comforting flavors of your homemade Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe. Every forkful is pure satisfaction!

How to Serve Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top add a burst of color and a subtle herbal note that brightens the rich cheese and sauce. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or freshly cracked pepper can wake up the dish with a little heat.

Side Dishes

Pair this Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a nice contrast in texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small ramekins for an elegant touch, perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, scoop the ziti onto large plates and top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a rustic, inviting look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often develop even more after resting overnight!

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Pack it in a freezer-safe container before baking or freeze cooked leftovers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes to warm through without drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover loosely and stir halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta if I don’t have ziti?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni make great alternatives. The key is to use a tubular pasta that holds sauce well.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just ensure your marinara sauce doesn’t contain any meat, and this dish is naturally vegetarian since it’s focused on cheeses and pasta.

Can I prepare the Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it great for busy days or entertaining.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can use a simple mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme to replicate that classic blend.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free of gluten.

Final Thoughts

This Three Cheese Baked Ziti Recipe is a shining star in the world of comfort food—easy to make, bursting with flavor, and a true crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish has saved many meals and created countless happy memories around the table. I encourage you to give it a try and watch it quickly become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!

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