Baked Cheesy Ziti Recipe
This is one of everyones favourite meals. It’s so simple, yet so satisfying. Sometimes I make it in smaller portions and freeze batches so I always have a quick meal on hand.
Ingredients
- About 1 tbsp. kosher salt for the pasta water
- 1 batch Pomodoro Sauce, DeliciousDish OR 1
- jar of your favourite tomato sauce
- 450-500g of any good quality tube shaped
- pasta, cut ziti or rigatoni
- 1 ball of mozzarella cheese, grated
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Pasta Water
Instructions
- 1
In a large pot of boiling salted water cook pasta until very al-dente (3-4 minutes LESS than the suggested cooking time on package). Scoop 2 cups of pasta cooking water out of the pot before you strain the pasta, set aside.
- 2
Strain and place pasta back in pot, set aside. Add 1 cup of sauce to the cooked pasta, toss to coat.
- 3
In a 9x13 casserole dish spoon a little tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. Lay half of the pasta, sprinkle with parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the rest of the pasta, then tomato sauce, mozzarella and then parmesan cheese.
- 4
Spoon a little pasta water in each corner of the dish and then a few spoons along all the sides.
- 5
Cover tightly with tin foil and bake in 350ºF oven for 1-1½ hours. The pasta should be piping hot and cheese should be completely melted. Remove tin foil in the last 15 mins. of baking. If you like you can bake longer to get a crunchy bottom also. Let rest for 10-15 min before serving. Serves 6 Note: You can make this with a meat sauce in place of a tomato sauce. Make Ahead Tip: I make a few of these and freeze them. Freeze at the end of Step 4 and continue with Step 5 when ready to use.
Tips & Storage
- How to Store
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture and flavor.
- Can I Freeze This?
- Most main dishes freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Meal Prep Tip
- Double the recipe and freeze half for a future weeknight dinner. It saves time and ensures you always have a homemade meal ready.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Baked Cheesy Ziti?
This Baked Cheesy Ziti recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 8 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
Can I make this baked cheesy ziti ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.