Garlic Bread Crusted Baked Ziti

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 egg

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook ziti according to package instructions; drain.
3. 3 In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. 4 Layer half the ziti in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
5. 5 Spread marinara sauce over ziti.
6. 6 Add ricotta mixture and top with remaining ziti.
7. 7 Mix bread crumbs, minced garlic, parsley, and olive oil; sprinkle over ziti.
8. 8 Top with remaining mozzarella.
9. 9 Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
10. 10 Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet

Variations

• Add sautéed spinach for a veggie boost.
• Swap ziti for penne or rigatoni.

Substitutions

• Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-calorie option.
• Use marinara sauce from a jar if short on time.

Pairings

• Red wine like Chianti
• Sparkling water with lemon

Nutrition

Tips

• Use whole wheat bread crumbs for a nutty flavor.
• Add cooked ground sausage or meatballs for extra heartiness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 45 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp green salad.
• Pair with garlic knots or Italian bread.

FAQ