How to Make Baked Ziti with Cheese - A Step-by-Step Guide

Baked ziti with cheese is a classic comfort food that brings together the heartiness of pasta and the gooey, savory goodness of melted cheese. This timeless dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering with friends. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this baked ziti recipe is easy to follow and will leave you with a mouthwatering meal that is sure to s...

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Ingredients

  • 1 (16 ounce) box Barilla® Ziti
  • 5 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt (Optional)
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (Optional)
  • 2 cups Barilla® Marinara Sauce
  • 1 pound buffalo mozzarella cheese, cut into 1/4-inch cubes
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs

Information

  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings

  • Bechamel sauce: Heat butter in a medium sauce pan until melted. Add flour and stir until smooth. Cook over medium heat until light golden brown, about 6 to 7 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, heat the milk in separate pan until just about to boil.
  • Add milk to butter mixture 1 cup at a time, whisking continuously until very smooth and bring to a boil. Cook 30 seconds and remove from heat. Season with nutmeg and 2 teaspoons salt and set aside.
  • Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
  • Bring 6 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot and add 2 tablespoons salt (optional).
  • Cook Ziti for 30 seconds less than the package instructions.
  • Add Marinara Sauce, bechamel sauce, mozzarella, and grated cheese to the ziti and mix well.
  • Divide ziti and sauce mixture among six individual gratin dishes. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
  • Bake for about 20 minutes, until bubbling and crusty on top. Serve immediately.
  • Nutrition

    578 cal.

    • Total Fat: 26g
    • Saturated Fat: 15g
    • Cholesterol: 75mg
    • Sodium: 2429mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 62g
    • Dietary Fiber: 4g
    • Total Sugars: 6g
    • Protein: 25g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 503mg
    • Iron: 1mg
    • Potassium: 164mg