Description
Baked Ziti Without Ricotta is a simple, flavorful twist on the classic Italian pasta bake. This dish features ziti pasta tossed in a tangy marinara sauce, mixed with gooey mozzarella cheese, and then baked to perfection until golden and bubbly. Without the traditional ricotta, the focus shifts to the perfect balance of cheese and sauce, creating a lighter yet still satisfying version of this beloved casserole. The mozzarella melts into the pasta, creating an irresistible cheesy crust on top while the sauce absorbs into every nook and cranny of the ziti. It’s a great make-ahead meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a cozy weeknight option. You can also customize this dish by adding vegetables, ground meat, or fresh herbs to suit your tastes. Simple, hearty, and full of flavor, Baked Ziti Without Ricotta is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ziti pasta: Ziti is the pasta of choice for baked ziti. Its tubular shape helps the sauce cling to the pasta, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: A rich, tomato-based sauce that serves as the foundation of the flavor in this dish. You can use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides that signature melty, gooey cheese experience.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the mozzarella.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing garlic and adding a hint of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds aromatic richness to the marinara sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic herb that complements the marinara sauce and enhances the Italian flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another staple herb for that authentic Italian taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a bit of heat, red pepper flakes add a pleasant spice to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for seasoning the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds a bit of seasoning to balance the richness of the cheese.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional): For garnish and a pop of color.
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (or ground beef): A great way to add protein and flavor to the dish. The sausage can be sweet or spicy, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Adds an earthy depth and texture to the baked ziti.
- 1/2 cup spinach or kale: A healthy addition that adds color and nutrients.
- 1/2 cup bell peppers: Sweet bell peppers complement the savory flavors of the sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes), until the pasta is al dente, which means it still has a slight bite to it. This is important because the pasta will cook a little more in the oven. After the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later. If the marinara sauce gets too thick, you can add a bit of the pasta water to thin it out.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Next, pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine with the garlic. Season with oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to concentrate the flavors and meld the ingredients together.
If you’re using Italian sausage or ground beef, brown it in the same skillet with the garlic before adding the marinara sauce. This will infuse the sauce with additional flavor from the meat. Once the sauce has simmered, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Once your pasta is drained and the sauce is ready, combine them in the skillet or a large mixing bowl. Stir the cooked ziti into the sauce, making sure all of the pasta is well-coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary—sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make a big difference.
Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Start by spreading half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the bottom of the dish. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta, followed by 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. This layer of cheese will melt and add creaminess to the ziti.
Top with the remaining pasta and sauce mixture, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top. The cheese will melt and form a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Ziti
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted, and the edges of the pasta should be slightly crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After removing the baked ziti from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 15g