If you're a fan of pasta, then you're in for a treat with these five best ziti recipes. You've got classic baked ziti, creamy spinach and ricotta, and even spicy sausage and pepper ziti that'll make your taste buds dance. Plus, there's veggie-packed primavera and a pesto chicken twist to please everyone at the table. So, are you ready to discover which one you'll whip up for dinner tonight?
Classic Baked Ziti
Classic Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty Italian-American dish that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. This pasta dish is layered with ziti noodles, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all baked to perfection for a deliciously satisfying meal.
With its cheesy goodness and robust flavors, Classic Baked Ziti is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper, stirring until well blended. Add the marinara sauce to the pasta and mix until evenly coated. Then, fold in the ricotta mixture until fully incorporated.
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheeses.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the marinara sauce before mixing it with the pasta.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, to create your own signature baked ziti. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Don't forget to garnish with fresh basil before serving for a pop of color and flavor!
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Ziti
Creamy Spinach and Ricotta Ziti is a delightful pasta dish that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the freshness of spinach, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion, and it's easy to prepare, making it a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks alike. The creamy texture and delicious flavors make this ziti a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sautéed spinach, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, topping it with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, you can incorporate cooked Italian sausage or chicken into the ziti mixture.
If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
To improve the dish's presentation, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Make sure to let the ziti sit for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set, making it easier to serve.
Enjoy your creamy spinach and ricotta ziti!
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Ziti
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Ziti is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers and the comforting texture of ziti pasta. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, as it's simple to prepare and packs a punch with its spicy seasoning. The combination of ingredients creates a deliciously satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
Once the sausage is cooked, add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet, sautéing until they're tender. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finally, add the drained ziti pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sausage mixture while it simmers.
You can also customize the heat level by selecting a milder sausage or adjusting the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
If you want to make it even heartier, adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach can improve the dish.
Don't forget to top each serving with fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy your delicious Spicy Sausage and Pepper Ziti!
Veggie-Packed Ziti Primavera
Ziti Primavera is a vibrant and hearty pasta dish that showcases a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, making it perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. This recipe combines al dente ziti pasta with an array of colorful veggies, all tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce.
It's versatile, allowing you to use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand, and can be easily modified to include protein if desired. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy a burst of flavors that will brighten your day!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Start by cooking the ziti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
Next, add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender. Toss in the cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking just until the spinach wilts.
Finally, combine the cooked ziti with the sautéed vegetables, season with salt and pepper, and mix well to guarantee everything is evenly coated.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavors of your Ziti Primavera, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for brightness, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
You can also customize this dish by incorporating protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp, or by using whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and make for a delicious lunch the next day!
Pesto Chicken Ziti
Pesto Chicken Ziti is a delightful and vibrant dish that brings together tender chicken, ziti pasta, and a fresh basil pesto sauce, creating a deliciously comforting meal that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This recipe isn't only simple to prepare but also allows for customization with your favorite vegetables or protein options.
The combination of creamy, herbaceous pesto and perfectly cooked pasta makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by cooking the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, basil pesto, and cherry tomatoes, mixing well to guarantee everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving.
Extra Tips:
To add extra flavor and nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
You can also use grilled chicken for a smoky flavor or substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
If you prefer a lighter version, use whole wheat ziti and reduce the cheese.
This dish can easily be made ahead of time; simply assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.
Enjoy your Pesto Chicken Ziti!