Spooky Baked Ziti
This baked ziti combines tender pasta with a bright, tangy tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. The dish features a smoky cheese topping and a hint of spice, creating a cozy yet daring comfort food with a slightly messy, fun presentation. Perfect for cool nights or festive gatherings, it offers a balance of warmth and mischievous flavor.
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Calories: 450kcal
Servings: 4
Equipment
- Skillet
- Baking Dish
- Spoon
- Oven
Ingredients
- 400 g ziti pasta uncooked
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- a handful fresh basil or oregano chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease your baking dish to keep things from sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until fragrant and the onion turns translucent.
- Add crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes to the skillet, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until it thickens slightly and your kitchen fills with warm, savory aromas.
- Fold the cooked ziti into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Then transfer everything into your prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over the top, followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor and a golden finish.
- Bake uncovered in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling, golden, and slightly crispy around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to set and making it easier to serve.
- Garnish with chopped fresh basil or oregano for a burst of herbal brightness that complements the rich, cheesy top.
- Serve hot, with some of that gooey, spicy cheese sticking to your fingers and a smile on your face—it’s comfort with a mischievous twist!
Notes
Feel free to add spicy sausage or switch up the cheeses for a richer, more decadent variation. Keep an eye on the cheese topping to prevent over-browning, and enjoy the playful messiness of this cozy dish.
Nutrition
Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 900mg | Potassium: 600mg | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 350mg | Iron: 3mg