Print

Easy Cheesy One-Pan Baked Ziti Recipe Perfect for Quick Dinners

easy cheesy one-pan baked ziti - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting and easy baked ziti recipe that cooks pasta, sauce, and cheese together in one pan for a quick, cheesy dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces dry ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (240 grams)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 grams)
  • Handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but do not brown.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, water or broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add dry ziti pasta directly into the sauce. Stir well to ensure pasta is submerged.
  5. Bring the sauce back to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente.
  6. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the top. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses across the surface.
  7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow cheese to set and flavors to meld.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

If sauce is too thick before baking, add a splash more water or broth. If too thin, simmer a few minutes longer. Stir gently to avoid breaking pasta. Watch cheese during baking to prevent over-browning. Let dish rest 5 minutes after baking for best texture. For crispy edges, place pan closer to broiler for last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked ziti, one-pan meal, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/easy-cheesy-one-pan-baked-ziti-recipe-perfect-for-quick-dinners/