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When preparing your Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight, achieving even layering is essential for both aesthetics and taste. To ensure that your pasta doesn’t clump together, start by tossing the cooked ziti with a splash of olive oil right after draining. This simple step not only prevents sticking but also adds a subtle flavor. When layering, begin with a generous spoonful of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. This helps create a moisture barrier that keeps the pasta from sticking to the bottom.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Cheesy Baked Ziti, a beloved classic that brings warmth to every table. This delicious dish layers ziti pasta with rich marinara sauce and a blend of creamy cheeses, creating a satisfying meal for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike. Easy to customize, you can add veggies or meats to suit any taste. Perfect for sharing, this pasta delight will become a favorite in your home, making mealtime a cherished experience.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup shredded provolone cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when your dish is ready to bake.

    Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it's al dente, which usually takes about 9 to 11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

      Sauté garlic: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 1-2 minutes. You want it fragrant but not browned, as this can make the garlic bitter.

        Mix sauce and herbs: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce with the sautéed garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced flavor.

          Combine cheese: In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the provolone cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir thoroughly until all the cheese is well incorporated.

            Layer the ingredients: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture across the bottom. Next, layer on half of the cooked ziti. Spoon half of the cheese mixture on top of the ziti, followed by another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat these steps with the remaining ziti, cheese mixture, and finish off with a final layer of marinara sauce.

              Add final cheeses: Generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the assembled ziti to create a cheesy crust.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil—this helps keep the moisture in and prevents the top from browning too quickly. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a lovely golden brown hue.

                  Garnish and serve: Once baked, take the ziti out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, if desired, to add a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and savor each delightful bite!

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: Consider serving the ziti in individual portions on warm plates to elevate the dining experience. A fresh side salad and a slice of garlic bread would complement this dish beautifully!