BUSY NIGHT BAKED ZITI

Every time I make this baked ziti I’m reminded just how quick, simple and easy it is to make and how delicious it comes out.

My mom always made this baked ziti growing up, and she still does for some family dinners, especially when my brother is in town. I personally mix the cooked penne, sauce, and cheese together in one large bowl and then pour it into the glass baking dish, because I measure the success of a recipe based on the easy and simplicity :).

While there’s a bit of cooking time involved (less than 1 hour from start to finish0, the actual process of making this dish is SO simple, easy and quick. The oven does the hard part ;).

The ingredients are simple and the list is short, so I always keep them on hand to be able to make a last minute and quick but satisfying and healthy dinner that everyone in my family loves.

We’ll sometimes pair it with garlic bread and sometimes with a salad, but always with dessert when Jagger is present.

It’s a great meal to keep for leftovers, especially and lunch or dinner later in the week. Give it a try and share in the comments what you liked and what you might do differently!

Ingredients

• 1 package ziti pasta

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 jar marinara sauce

• 1 package part-skim mozzarella cheese divided

• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350°F.

• Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add a small handful of salt and pasta to water and stir. Boil pasta for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until pasta is al dente. Drain, toss with a teaspoon of oil, pour into a large mixing bowl.

• Add marinara and 3/4 package of mozzarella and gently fold together until fully incorporated. Adjust seasonings.

• Pour mixture into a lightly greased 8”x 8” baking dish and top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and browns.

• Allow ziti to cool for 5 to 7 minutes before serving.