Baked Ziti: Italian-American Classic

Last updated on February 25th, 2025

When you need to feed many people at Christmas time, a big pan of baked ziti is hard to beat. This tasty Italian-American dish is both cozy and easy to make, which is great for holiday parties. Everyone at your Christmas dinner is likely to love it! Let’s learn how to make baked ziti: it’s not hard to cook, and it’s simple to serve and eat too.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3. While the pasta cooks, mix ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, basil, and oregano in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add the marinara sauce and toss to coat.
5. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the pasta mixture.
6. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, then add another layer of pasta.
7. Repeat layers, finishing with the pasta mixture on top.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks

1. For extra flavor, add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the marinara sauce.
2. Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added nutrition.
3. Use a combination of cheeses like fontina, provolone, or asiago for a more complex flavor profile.
4. Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking.
5. For a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan over the final cheese layer.
6. Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor, or make your own if time allows.
7. For individual portions, bake in single-serving ramekins for a fancy presentation.

How to Serve

Baked ziti is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or focaccia makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up any extra sauce. For a veggie side, consider roasted broccoli or a medley of grilled vegetables.

For beverages, a medium-bodied Italian red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the tomato-based sauce perfectly. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a crisp Italian soda are refreshing choices.

When serving a large group, place the baked ziti in the center of the table family-style, surrounded by side dishes. Provide a large serving spoon and spatula for easy portioning. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aroma.

Baked Ziti Takes Center Stage

Baked ziti is great for holiday parties, as you can spend less time cooking and more time with family and friends. This filling Italian-American food might become a dish your family wants every Christmas. This holiday, try making baked ziti: the nice smell of its cooking will make your home feel warm and happy.

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