A delightful twist on the classic baked ziti, this recipe combines rich cheeses and flavorful sauce for a comforting meal.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and a perfect golden crust.
Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the pasta al dente prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Mixing the cheeses thoroughly ensures even distribution in the casserole.
Spray a baking dish with non-stick spray. Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom.
Using non-stick spray makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking.
Layer the cooked pasta over the sauce, followed by the cheese mixture.
Layering ensures each bite has a mix of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Sprinkling parmesan on top adds a savory crust to the dish.
Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
Adding extra cheese on top creates a gooey, golden layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Letting the casserole bake until bubbly ensures the flavors meld together.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Allowing the dish to cool slightly makes it easier to serve and enhances the flavors.