Description

Ever wonder how a simple pasta bake can bring everyone to the table with smiles? What if you could whip up an Easy Baked Ziti that’s so delicious it earns a 4.93 rating from 185 happy eaters, yet takes just 45 minutes to make? This recipe’s your ticket to a comforting, vegetarian dinner that’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Easy Baked Ziti so irresistible. Each one brings flavor or texture, and I’ll share why they’re key, plus swaps for flexibility. Most are pantry staples or easy to find.

4 cups (32 ounces) marinara sauce: Tangy, tomatoey base. Sub: Store-bought or homemade tomato sauce.
2 cups (16 ounces) ricotta cheese: Creamy, rich layer. Sub: Cottage cheese (blended smooth) or vegan ricotta.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Bold, aromatic depth. Sub: ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Bright, fresh zing. Sub: Lemon juice or skip it.
1 teaspoon oregano: Earthy, Italian flavor. Sub: Dried basil or Italian seasoning.
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Subtle heat. Sub: Skip for mild or increase for spicy.
¾ teaspoon sea salt, more for pasta water: Enhances all flavors. Adjust to taste.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds balance.
1 pound ziti pasta: Sturdy, tube-shaped pasta to hold the sauce. Sub: Rigatoni, penne, or gluten-free pasta.
Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling: Prevents sticking and adds richness. Sub: Avocado oil or butter.
1 pound fresh spinach: Nutrient-packed green layer. Sub: Frozen spinach (thawed and squeezed dry) or kale.
1½ cups grated smoked mozzarella cheese: Smoky, melty goodness. Sub: Regular mozzarella or vegan mozzarella.
¼ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan cheese: Sharp, salty topping. Sub: Nutritional yeast for vegan.
Chopped fresh parsley and/or torn basil leaves, for garnish: Fresh, colorful finish. Sub: Chives or skip it.

Quick Marinara Sauce (if Making)

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing.
1 small onion, diced: Sweet base.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Flavor boost.
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Rich and smooth.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Italian flair.
Pinch of red pepper flakes: Optional heat.
Salt and pepper: To taste.

Sauté onion and garlic in oil for 5 minutes. Add tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 15 minutes. Makes ~3-4 cups.

With about 12 ingredients, this dish is simple yet indulgent. Quality cheese and fresh spinach make it a comfort food star.

(Word count: ~400. Let’s cook!)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ricotta Mixture (5 Minutes)

In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups ricotta, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 teaspoon oregano, ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Mix until smooth. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning for extra zing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta (10-12 Minutes)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach (3 Minutes)

Return the pot to the stove over low heat. Drizzle with a little olive oil and add 1 pound fresh spinach (work in batches if needed). Toss and sauté for 1-2 minutes until just wilted.
Remove spinach, gently squeeze out excess water with a clean towel, and coarsely chop. Set aside. Tip: Don’t overcook—spinach should stay vibrant.

Step 4: Assemble the Ziti (5 Minutes)

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Spread ½ cup marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add the cooked pasta back to the pot with the remaining 3½ cups marinara, most of the chopped spinach (reserve a small handful), ¼ teaspoon sea salt, and more black pepper. Toss to combine.
Layer half the pasta mixture in the baking dish. Top with dollops of the ricotta mixture and the reserved spinach. Scoop the remaining pasta on top.
Sprinkle with 1½ cups grated smoked mozzarella and ¼ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan. Drizzle with olive oil.

Step 5: Bake and Serve (20 Minutes)

Bake for 16-22 minutes until the cheese is browned and bubbly. Tip: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra golden cheese, but watch closely!
Garnish with chopped parsley and/or torn basil leaves. Serve hot with extra marinara on the side if desired.

(Word count: ~800. Time to serve!)