Introduction
Dive into a festive feast with this irresistibly cheesy Christmas Baked Ziti! This gooey, savory delight is perfect for cozy gatherings and will have everyone asking for seconds. Gather your friends and family around the table for a comforting dish that encapsulates the spirit of the season.
Detailed Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s time to get that holiday magic cooking!
2. Boil the ziti in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside while you sing a holiday tune.
3. In a saucepan, combine marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until it’s bubbling with festive flair.
4. Mix ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, and half the Parmesan in a bowl. Feel free to dance while you stir.
5. In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, top with half of the sauce, and spread the cheese mixture. Add the remaining ziti, sauce, and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden, and your kitchen smells like a holiday wonderland.
7. Let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil, and prepare for a delicious celebration on your plate.
Enjoy your Christmas Baked Ziti—you’ll surely spread the joy of the season with every cheesy bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Cook the Ziti
Boil the ziti in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until it’s bubbling.
Step 4: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan.
Step 5: Layer the Ingredients
In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, top it with half of the sauce, and then spread the cheese mixture. Add the remaining ziti and sauce, then sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let it cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil, and serve.
Notes
Serving Size
Approximately 400 calories per serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use gluten-free pasta or a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil before adding the ziti. Cook until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Simmering Sauce
In a saucepan, combine marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Allow it to simmer until it becomes bubbling and well blended, enhancing the flavors.
Mixing Cheese Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta cheese, egg, and a portion of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan. Ensure that the mixture is smooth and well combined to achieve a creamy texture.
Layering
In a baking dish, layer the baked ziti evenly with the sauce and cheese mixture. Ensure that each layer is distributed evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.
Baking
Bake in a preheated oven until the top is golden brown and bubbly. This step ensures all ingredients meld together, providing a harmonious cheesy experience.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with other pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni, depending on your preference.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ziti up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate it for a day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
What can I serve with Christmas Baked Ziti?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container. Just thaw and reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
You can opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, reduce the cheese portions, or add more vegetables to the sauce for added nutrition.
Conclusion
This festive, cheesy baked ziti is not only a delightful main dish but also an opportunity to spread holiday cheer among friends and family. Enjoy the rich flavors, and happy feasting!
