Looking for a delicious and easy baked ziti recipe? Look no further than Ina Garten’s mouthwatering version! Ina Garten, also known as the Barefoot Contessa, is a renowned American chef and cookbook author known for her simple yet flavorful recipes. Her baked ziti recipe is no exception, combining classic Italian flavors with ease of preparation. Let’s dive into this delightful dish and learn how to recreate it in your own kitchen!
To start off, gather the following ingredients: 1 pound of ziti pasta, 3 cups of marinara sauce, 1 1/2 cups of ricotta cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley leaves, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, chopped parsley, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Next, add the cooked ziti pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until the pasta is evenly coated. Pour half of the marinara sauce into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Then, pour the ziti and cheese mixture over the sauce, spreading it out to create an even layer.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the ziti, covering it completely. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, creating a cheesy and gooey layer.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dish to set slightly.
Now, let’s answer some frequently asked questions about Ina Garten’s baked ziti recipe:
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as the dish will be cold from the fridge.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While ziti is traditional for this recipe, you can use other short pasta shapes such as penne or rigatoni if desired.
3. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can brown ground beef, sausage, or even add cooked shredded chicken to the sauce for a heartier version.
4. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this baked ziti recipe freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or an airtight container before freezing.
5. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, you can use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce instead of making it from scratch.
6. Can I substitute the cheeses?
If you prefer different types of cheese, feel free to experiment. Fontina, cheddar, or even a combination of cheeses can be used.
7. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Ina Garten’s baked ziti recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a comforting and satisfying Italian dish without much effort. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this cheesy and delicious meal. Bon appétit!