Cheater baked ziti –Today, we’re excited to share a delightful recipe that will elevate your mealtime with minimal effort—Cheater Baked Ziti. This quick and easy pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Packed with flavor and comfort, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Cheater Baked Ziti
This Cheater Baked Ziti is not only simple but also a crowd-pleaser. With its rich combination of cheesy goodness and hearty pasta, it comes together in no time and satisfies your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
- In an oven-proof baking dish, begin layering your ingredients. Start with a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
- Add half of the cooked pasta over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture on top. Sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor and a nice golden crust.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Once done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy your Cheater Baked Ziti warm, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds! It’s a winning recipe that combines ease and flavor, making it a staple in your kitchen.