Baked Pasta Recipe ( Baked Ziti)
Baked pasta recipe, is a dish that combines al dente pasta with rich sauces, savory cheeses, and a medley of flavorful ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
This one pot baked pasta recipe (Baked ziti) is an Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This hearty casserole combines al dente ziti pasta with rich marinara sauce, mixed vegatabiles, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to golden perfection for a melty, satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, baked pasta recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table, making it a staple in many homes. Enjoy your hearty and delicious baked pasta recipe!
what are the ingredients for Baked pasta recipe?
- 350g of your favorite pasta (spagitti, penne or rigatoni work well)
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 3 cups water or broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 large onion
- 2 tomatoes
- 2 green bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
how to make Baked pasta recipe:
Step1:
Preheat your oven to 180°C. In your large oven-safe pot Combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or broth, sliced onion, sliced tomatoes, sliced bell pepper, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well submerged in the liquid.
Step2:
Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the cover and stir the pasta, ensuring it cooks evenly. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbling.
Step3:
Once the pasta is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Place it back into the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step4:
Take out your one-pot baked pasta and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
This One-Pot Baked Pasta Recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also a fabulous way to enjoy a comforting dish packed with cheesy goodness. Customize with your favorite veggies or protein for an even heartier meal. Enjoy your dinner!
tips for making Baked pasta recipe:
- For a successful one-pot baked pasta, choose a sturdy pasta like spaghetti, penne or fusilli that can hold up during baking.
- Use a mix of liquids, such as canned tomatoes and vegetable or chicken broth, to ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs lots of flavor.
- Add in vegetables, proteins, and herbs to enhance the dish, making sure everything is well distributed.
- Sprinkle the cheese on top for a crispy finish.
- Cover the pot with a lid or foil for part of the baking time to trap moisture, then uncover towards the end for that perfect golden crust. Season generously throughout the process, and enjoy the simplicity of your delicious one-pot meal!
frequently asked questions
Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes, most pasta shapes work, but opt for those that hold sauce well, like spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
Do I need to cook the pasta before baking?
No, you can add uncooked pasta directly to the pot with the sauce and liquid; it will cook while baking.
What can I add for protein?
You can add ground meat and sausage, or you can beans or legumes for a vegetarian option.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Stir the pasta initially to distribute the sauce and liquid, and make sure to add water if the pasta needs it.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella is a popular choice for its melting quality, but you can mix in parmesan, ricotta, or other cheeses for added flavor.
Can I make baked pasta recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What are some good vegetable additions?
Spinach, bell peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms work well, adding both flavor and nutrition.
How long should I bake it?
Typically, 30-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C) should be sufficient, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Can I cook it on the stovetop instead?
Yes, you can simmer everything on the stovetop until the pasta cookes through if you prefer not to bake it.
These questions can help guide you through the process of making a delicious one-pot baked pasta!
Try these recipes:
Creamy Pink Pasta Recipe
Quick & Easy Pasta Recipe
Easy Homemade Pesto Pasta Recipe
Baked Pasta Recipe ( Baked Ziti)
Course: PastaCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes40
minutes300
kcal15
minutes1
hour10
minutesBaked pasta recipe, is a dish that marries al dente pasta with rich sauces, savory cheeses, and a medley of flavorful ingredients. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
350g of your favorite pasta (spagitti, penne or rigatoni work well)
4 cups marinara sauce
3 cups water or broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 large onion
2 tomatoes
2 green bell pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Prep the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 180°C. In your large oven-safe pot Combine the uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, water or broth, sliced onion, sliced tomatoes, sliced bell pepper, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well submerged in the liquid.
- Bake the Pasta: Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the cover and stir the pasta, ensuring it cooks evenly. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and the sauce is bubbling.
- Add the Cheese: Once the pasta is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Place it back into the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Take out your one-pot baked pasta and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.