Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ziti pasta: The heart of this dish! Ziti is perfect for holding onto all the cheese and sauce.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, making the texture velvety.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: A classic melty cheese that creates that gorgeous gooey pull you love in baked pasta dishes.
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese: Adds a smooth, savory depth to the dish. You could substitute with mozzarella, but the provolone adds a lovely kick.
- 1 cup fontina cheese: Known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, it pairs beautifully with the other cheeses.
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The salty, sharp flavor of Parmesan adds an irresistible finish to the dish.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce for a rich, tangy base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a warm, aromatic touch to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and adding richness.
- Fresh basil (optional): To garnish and add a fresh, herbal finish to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning the sauce and pasta.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the ziti bakes evenly and becomes golden and bubbly.
- Cook the ziti pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s just al dente (slightly firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, provolone, fontina, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all the cheeses are fully combined. This cheesy filling will be the heart of your dish, giving it that rich, decadent flavor.
- Make the marinara sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the dish: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Then, add half of the cooked ziti pasta. Top it with half of the cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the pasta. Repeat with the remaining pasta and cheese mixture, layering it like a lasagna.
- Top with sauce and more cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the ziti. Sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a little extra mozzarella for that perfect melt.
- Bake the ziti: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set and make it easier to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 28g