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Cheesy baked ziti is a beloved Italian-American dish that encapsulates the essence of comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to family meals across the nation. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this hearty casserole has become a staple in many households. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its versatility; it can be customized with various ingredients to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special gathering with friends and family, cheesy baked ziti is sure to please.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

Indulge in the comforting flavors of cheesy baked ziti, a beloved Italian-American classic that transforms family meals into memorable occasions. This versatile dish features baked ziti pasta coated in rich marinara and a blend of creamy cheeses, ensuring every bite is satisfying. Perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights, this recipe allows for creativity with ingredients, from veggies to proteins. Follow our simple steps to bake a dish that will warm hearts and appetites alike!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded provolone cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Sauté garlic: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.

        Mix sauce and herbs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce with the sautéed garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

          Combine cheese: In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the provolone cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.

            Layer the ingredients: Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti on top. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the ziti, followed by another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat these layers with the remaining ziti, cheese mixture, and finish with the marinara sauce.

              Add final cheeses: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the baked ziti.

                Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent it from browning too quickly) and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Servings: 6-8