** Ultimate Homemade Baked Ziti Recipe - Delicious Comfort Food for Family Gatherings

**Description:**If you’re searching for the perfect dish to bring warmth and comfort to your family gatherings, look no further than this homemade baked zit……

**Description:**

If you’re searching for the perfect dish to bring warmth and comfort to your family gatherings, look no further than this homemade baked ziti recipe. This classic Italian-American dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. With layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, baked ziti is the epitome of comfort food that everyone will love.

### Ingredients for the Perfect Baked Ziti

To create the ultimate homemade baked ziti recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Start with ziti pasta, which is the star of the dish. You can also use penne or rigatoni if you prefer. For the sauce, a rich marinara is essential; you can either use store-bought or make your own from scratch. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano will elevate the flavor profile, while a mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese will create that creamy, cheesy goodness we all crave.

Here’s a basic list of ingredients you’ll need:

- 1 pound of ziti pasta

- 2 cups of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

- 15 ounces of ricotta cheese

- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese

- 1 large egg

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

- 1 teaspoon of dried basil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Cook the Pasta:** Begin by cooking the ziti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. **Prepare the Cheese Mixture:** In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

3. **Layer the Ingredients:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Next, add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the sauce.

4. **Bake to Perfection:** Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

5. **Garnish and Serve:** Once out of the oven, let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the smiles on your loved ones' faces.

### Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

- **Make-Ahead Option:** This homemade baked ziti recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

- **Customize Your Dish:** Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Ground beef, sausage, or vegetables like spinach and mushrooms can be incorporated into the layers for added flavor and nutrition.

- **Leftovers:** Baked ziti makes for fantastic leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

In conclusion, this homemade baked ziti recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. With its hearty flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that will be requested time and time again. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to impress your family and friends with this delightful comfort food!