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Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti

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  • Author: mohamed
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 45
  • Total Time: 60
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A heartwarming dish of baked ziti enveloped in creamy cheese and rich marinara, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the pasta until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
  3. Prepare the sauce by combining cream cheese, ricotta, and half of the mozzarella with marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
  4. Mix the drained pasta with the sauce until fully coated.
  5. Layer half of the ziti mixture in a greased baking dish, followed by half of the remaining mozzarella and some Parmesan.
  6. Add the rest of the pasta mixture on top, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  7. Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let the ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Consider using low-fat cream cheese or ricotta for a lighter version. You can also customize with vegetables or different proteins.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg