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A close-up of a serving of baked ziti with three cheeses, showing melted mozzarella and rich tomato sauce.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

A classic comfort food dish featuring ziti pasta baked with a rich tomato sauce and a blend of three cheeses.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
For the Sauce and Cheese
  • 1 jar marinara sauce 24 ounce
  • 1 container ricotta cheese 15 ounce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and return to the pot.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Add the marinara sauce to the cooked ziti and stir to coat. Then, add the ricotta cheese mixture to the pasta and stir gently until everything is evenly distributed.
  5. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
  8. Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce for a heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

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