Next, I mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce in a large pot, ensuring every piece is coated with that rich, tangy goodness. Then, in a greased baking dish, I begin layering the ingredients. I spread half of the pasta mixture first, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Then I repeat this process with the remaining pasta and finish off with the rest of the mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
After preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C), I cover the baking dish with foil and pop it in for about 25 minutes. This helps to meld all those wonderful flavors together. After 25 minutes, I carefully remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. The aroma that fills my kitchen is simply divine, beckoning everyone to come and take a peek!
Pro Tips for Best Results
One thing I’ve learned from making baked ziti multiple times is to always use quality marinara sauce. I find that a homemade sauce or a good store-bought variety can truly make a difference in flavor. Don’t hesitate to look for a brand that uses simple, wholesome ingredients. I tested this three ways, and the results were night and day!
Another tip is to let the casserole sit for about 10-15 minutes after baking before cutting into it. This allows it to set, preventing it from falling apart when you serve it. I’ve been impatient before and ended up with a cheesy mess—delicious but definitely not Instagram-worthy!
Lastly, I like to mix in some veggies or even ground meat for added nutrition and flavor. Spinach, mushrooms, or ground turkey are all excellent additions that will make your baked ziti even more scrumptious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made early on was not salting the pasta water enough. When I finally learned to add a generous amount of salt, the flavor of the pasta itself improved dramatically. You want that zing of flavor infused right from the start! (See the next page below to continue…)