Baked Ziti And Cheese
Creamy baked ziti layered with rich tomato sauce, melted cheeses, and herbs, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners with hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Parcook ziti according to package directions, then drain.
- Cook crushed tomatoes, small onion, salt, pepper, tomato paste, water, brown sugar, and parsley for 10 minutes.
- Layer cooked ziti, sauce, and cheeses like lasagna in a baking dish.
- Top with additional sauce and slices of provolone cheese.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes until cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the onion before adding it to the sauce. You can substitute ricotta for cottage cheese for a creamier texture. If you prefer a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish can be made ahead of time and frozen, just ensure to let it cool completely before wrapping.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Ziti And Cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside Italian recipes like Patti'S Pizza for a hearty dinner. A light red wine complements the flavors well and enhances the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ziti And Cheese contains roughly 670 calories, with 37g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (73% of the Daily Value), calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1899mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly since it does not include meat. You can add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time as it will be cold from the refrigerator.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can substitute with penne or rigatoni. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape you choose.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).