Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Five Cheese Baked Ziti. This Italian-American classic features tender ziti pasta tossed in a robust tomato basil sauce, blended with a decadent mixture of creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, provolone, sharp parmesan, and salty pecorino romano. Perfectly baked until bubbly and golden, this dish offers a sophisticated, multi-dimensional flavor profile that is ideal for satisfying family weeknight dinners or grand holiday gatherings. Every bite ensures a creamy texture and a satisfying, cheesy crust.
Ingredients
1 lb Ziti pasta
32 oz Marinara sauce
15 oz Whole milk ricotta cheese
2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup Provolone cheese
0.5 cup Freshly grated parmesan cheese
0.5 cup Pecorino Romano cheese
0.25 cup Fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti until al dente, then drain thoroughly.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce.
Stir in half of the ricotta and half of the shredded mozzarella into the pasta.
Spread half of the pasta mixture into a lightly greased 9×13 baking dish.
Layer the remaining ricotta, provolone, and some of the mozzarella over the first layer.
Top with the remaining pasta mixture and cover with the remaining mozzarella, parmesan, and pecorino romano.
Bake for 35 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente as it will continue to soften in the sauce while baking. Freshly grating your own cheese is highly recommended for superior melting. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg