As the holiday season approaches, finding a dish that is both comforting and crowd-pleasing becomes essential. Christmas Cheesy Baked Ziti fits the bill perfectly, offering layers of tender ziti noodles, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheeses that are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both holiday gatherings and cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Ziti Noodles:
- 1 pound ziti noodles
Sauce & Cheese:
- 24 ounces pasta sauce
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
Directions
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking when your ziti is assembled. - Cook the Ziti Noodles:
Cook the ziti noodles in a large pot of boiling water according to the package instructions. Once the noodles are al dente, drain them well and set aside. - Prepare the Cheese and Sauce Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the entire container of ricotta cheese, and the pasta sauce. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, creating a rich and cheesy sauce. - Combine the Noodles with the Sauce:
Add the cooked ziti noodles to the bowl with the cheese and sauce mixture. Gently stir until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. - Assemble the Dish:
Spray a large baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the pasta mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. - Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes. - Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. The dish is ready when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, with the edges slightly golden. - Serve:
Allow the baked ziti to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Cheesy Baked Ziti
- Add Extra Flavor: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese and sauce mixture. This adds a savory depth that complements the cheesy goodness.
- Perfect Pasta Texture: Slightly undercook the pasta before baking. The noodles will continue to cook in the oven, absorbing the sauce and preventing them from becoming too soft.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the ziti rest for a few minutes after baking allows the dish to set, making it easier to slice and ensuring the flavors are well-blended.
Conclusion
Christmas Cheesy Baked Ziti is the ultimate holiday comfort food. Its simple preparation and rich flavors make it a favorite for both festive occasions and everyday family meals. With gooey cheese, tender noodles, and a robust tomato sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at your holiday table.