Okay, friend, listen up! If you’re anything like me, you adore a good, comforting baked ziti but absolutely *dread* the flavor. What are the mountain of dishes that usually comes with it? I’m talking boiling pasta, making the sauce in one pot, assembling in a baking dish… It’s a whole production! What if I told you that you could get that same creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying baked ziti? How can you make a delicious meal in just one skillet? What is a one-skillet baked Ziti? It’s like lasagna, easier, quicker, and let’ s be honest, less fussy cousin. Is this a game changer for weeknight dinners? How much effort does it take to make a picture? My family devours this every single time – it’s become a staple request, especially on those hectic days. When everyone is running in the opposite direction on a Sunday evening, it’s like he
What is a one-skillet baked ziti?
Think of it as your classic baked ziti, but simplified. What are some of the best pastas, ricotta and tomato sauce? All melted mozzarella cheese, all cooked together in a single skillet. What’s essentially a pasta bake, but instead of pre-cooking the pasta, everything simmers together in the same pan. The pasta is cooked in a skillet, allowing the flavors to absorb. One skillet, minimal fuss, maximum flavor! What is a good home cooked meal for those of us who don’t have the time to cook it? ) for elaborate recipes. What is the beauty of a simple and elegant design?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
There are a million reasons why this One-Skillet Baked Ziti has become a family favorite, but let me break down the highlights. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The sauce is rich and robust, the ricotta adds a creamy tang, and the mozzarella… well, who doesn’t love a cheesy pasta bake? It’s pure comfort food heaven. What I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, it takes about 15 minutes of active prep time, and then the oven does all the work. No boiling pasta, no layering, just throw everything in a skillet and bake. And talk about budget-friendly! The ingredients are all pantry staples, so it’s easy to whip up even when your fridge is looking a little bare. This is also super versatile; feel free to add vegetables, different cheeses, or even leftover cooked chicken or sausage to make it your own. It’s a fantastic way to use up odds and ends in your fridge and create a delicious and satisfying meal. Honestly, I used to make traditional baked ziti, but after discovering this one-skillet method, I haven’t gone back. It’s just too easy and too delicious to resist!
How do I make one-skillet baked ziti?
Quick Overview
How do you sauté aromatics, add your sauce, water, and uncooked ziti pasta to a frying pan? In a large oven-safe skillet, stir in ricotta and top it all with mozzarella. Bake until the cheese is melted and the pasta is tender. That’s it! The beauty of this method is that the pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors and textures. What makes a creamy and cohesive dish? Even if you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this recipe.
Ingredients
For the Base:
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
What is the best way to make a sauce? 1 onion, chopped.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent, aromatic flavor.
What is the base of our flavorful tomato sauce? I prefer crushed tomatoes for their texture, but diced tomatoes work too.
What are some good ways to make tomato sauce?
1 teaspoon dried oregano: For that classic Italian flavor.
1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the aroma and taste.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat. Omit if you prefer milder flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Don’t be afraid to adjust to your liking.
2 cups water: This is what cooks the pasta, so don’t skimp!
1 pound ziti pasta, uncooked: The star of the show! Make sure it’s uncooked. I’ve tried it with other pasta shapes and ziti is by far my favorite for texture and taste.
For the Creamy Goodness:
1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy tang. Full-fat ricotta will give you the best results, but part-skim works too. I always do this, I let it sit out for like 15 min while the oven preheats so it mixes easier.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
1 egg, lightly beaten: Helps bind the ricotta mixture together.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Season the ricotta mixture.
What is the best way to season ricotta?
For the Cheesy Topping:
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty topping. What is the best way to melt mozzarella?
What are the step-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large oven-safe skillet (at least 12 inches). If you don’t have a stovetop, you can make this recipe in the oven and cook it on the stove top. Transfer everything to a baking dish before putting it in the oven. Make sure to coat the bottom of the skillet with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
What is the best olive oil to use in a skillet? Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. How do you burn garlic?
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Serve immediately. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the water. Stir well to combine. I always taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed. What are some good ways to add salt to your diet?
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Add the uncooked ziti pasta to the skillet and stir to make sure it’s fully submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture back to a simmer, then cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil. This is important because it helps the pasta cook evenly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is almost tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Make the Ricotta Mixture
While the pasta is simmering, prepare the ricotta mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Do not overmix. I like to use a fork to break up any large clumps of ricotta.
Step 6: Add Ricotta and Mozzarella
If the ricotta mixture is too thick, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining ingredients. Repeat with the other ingredients until combined. What is the best way to serve mozzarella cheese on top of this? How much mozzarella do you use?
Step 7: Bake
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Is bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the cheese from burning. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can tent the skillet with aluminum foil.
Step 8: Rest & Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. How do you slice cheese? Garnish with fresh basil, if desired. I tested this with a dollop of pesto before and that was great too.
What should I serve it with?
What are some good side dishes to serve with Baked Ziti?For a Simple Side:A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette is an easy pairing that balances the richness of the greens.For a Heartier Meal:Garlic Bread or cheesy breadsticks are always a hit with kids. Can you make your own pizza dough?For a lighter option: Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers, add a healthy dose of nutrients and a nice textural contrast.
For a Special Occasion: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors of the tomato sauce and cheese perfectly. My grandma always made baked ziti with some wine, it has a nostalgia thing for me.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your One-Skillet Baked Ziti
Want to take your One-Skillet Baked Ziti to the next level? Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years:
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta cooks in the sauce, it’s important to avoid overcooking it. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s almost tender but still has a slight bite. It will continue to cook in the oven.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your ingredients, the better your baked ziti will taste. Use good-quality crushed tomatoes, fresh garlic, and flavorful cheeses.
Customize the Sauce: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add ground beef, sausage, or Italian sausage for a meatier dish. Make sure to cook the meat before adding it to the sauce.
Add Extra Flavor: A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar can enhance the flavor of the sauce. You can also add a dollop of pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra zing.
Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Cheese is what makes baked ziti so irresistible. Use a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best results. I also like to add a layer of provolone cheese for extra flavor.
Let it Rest: After baking, let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set up and makes it easier to slice and serve. I always do this because I want to see the ziti cut nicely!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your One-Skillet Baked Ziti:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the baked ziti cool completely, then cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: Let the baked ziti cool completely, then wrap the skillet tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat refrigerated baked ziti, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and brown.
Microwave Reheating: You can also reheat individual portions of baked ziti in the microwave. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to cut it up so it reheats easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my beloved One-Skillet Baked Ziti. It’s a recipe that’s near and dear to my heart because it’s not only incredibly delicious but also incredibly easy and family-friendly. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want a comforting home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I hope you give it a try and love it as much as we do! If you’re a fan of easy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy my One-Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta or my Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta. Let me know in the comments if you give this a try, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! Happy cooking!
One-Skillet Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ziti pasta
- 1 cup Ricotta cheese
- 0.5 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 jar Marinara sauce
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Italian seasoning.
- Spread half of the marinara sauce in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Layer cooked ziti, ricotta mixture, and remaining marinara sauce.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
