Classic Baked Ziti

Warm up your soul with the delightful flavors of Classic Baked Ziti, a heartwarming pasta casserole that embodies comfort and simplicity. This dish takes advantage of a luscious pink sauce made with a blend of tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and eggs to give structure to the casserole as it bakes. The addition of gooey mozzarella cubes creates stretchy pockets of cheesy goodness throughout the ziti. Topped with more marinara, mozzarella, and a grating of Parmesan, this classic recipe is the epitome of easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing pasta bakes. Whether you’re in the cozy comfort of a cabin on a snowy day or simply craving a comforting meal, this Classic Baked Ziti is sure to please both family and friends.

Serves: 6 to 8

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound ziti, penne, or other thick tubular pasta
• Double recipe Perfect Easy Red Sauce (here)
• 12 ounces whole-milk ricotta cheese (homemade, see here) or high-quality store-bought
• 3 ounces Parmigiano-Reggiano, finely grated (about 1½ cups)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh basil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 pound whole-milk mozzarella cheese, cut into rough ¼-inch cubes

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and adjust an oven rack to the middle position.
2. Place the ziti in a large bowl and cover it with hot salted water by 3 or 4 inches. Allow the ziti to soak at room temperature for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally during the first 5 minutes to prevent sticking. Drain the soaked ziti.
3. In a large pot, pour half of the marinara sauce. Add the ricotta, half of the Parmigiano, beaten eggs, heavy cream, half of the minced parsley, and half of the minced basil. Stir the ingredients together to combine, and season the mixture to taste with salt and pepper. Add the soaked ziti and half of the mozzarella cubes, then stir until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the ziti mixture to a 13- by 9-inch baking dish. Top the dish with the remaining marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella cubes.
5. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is beginning to brown.
7. Take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the remaining Parmigiano on top. Allow the baked ziti to cool for 10 minutes.
8. Sprinkle the remaining minced parsley and basil on top, then serve.

Gather your friends and family around the table to share the joy of this Classic Baked Ziti. With its velvety pink sauce, stretchy pockets of mozzarella, and comforting blend of flavors, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re enjoying it at a cabin retreat in snowy New England or in the comfort of your home, this classic pasta bake is bound to create cherished memories and satisfy your cravings for delicious comfort food. Treat your loved ones to a delightful experience by serving this Classic Baked Ziti at your next gathering. Buon appetito!