Festive and Easy Christmas Cheesy Baked Ziti (Print version)
A cozy Christmas baked ziti with marinara, ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and a golden bubbly top for an easy holiday dinner.
# Ingredients:
For the pasta bake
01 -
1 lb (450 g) dried ziti pasta
02 -
1 tablespoon kosher salt, for pasta water
03 -
1 tablespoon olive oil, for the baking dish
04 -
1 jar (24 oz or 680 g) marinara sauce, plus more if desired
05 -
15 oz (425 g) whole-milk ricotta cheese
06 -
3 cups (340 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
07 -
1/2 cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese
08 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
09 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 -
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
11 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti 1-2 minutes less than the package directions for al dente, then drain well.
03 -
In a large bowl, stir together ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until creamy.
04 -
Add the drained ziti, 2 cups marinara, and the ricotta mixture to the bowl. Fold gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
05 -
Spread 1/2 cup marinara in the bottom of the dish. Add the pasta mixture, spoon the remaining marinara over the top, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
06 -
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the edges bubble and the cheese melts. Broil for 1-2 minutes for more color if desired.
07 -
Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with parsley or basil before serving.
# Good to know:
01 -
For a saucier casserole, warm an extra 1/2 cup marinara and spoon it over the top before baking.
02 -
Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
03 -
Let the dish rest before serving so the cheese and sauce settle.