Description
A simple, weeknight-friendly baked ziti made with just five ingredients. This creamy casserole features tender ziti pasta, a rich marinara and cream cheese sauce, and a golden, bubbly mozzarella topping.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces ziti or penne pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen spinach or cooked Italian sausage
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking oil or butter.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti until al dente, 1-2 minutes before package directions indicate. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and marinara sauce. Stir vigorously until smooth and creamy.
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce bowl and toss until every noodle is evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Soften cream cheese to room temperature for a smoother sauce. Shred your own mozzarella for better melting. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 18
Keywords: baked ziti, creamy pasta, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, mozzarella, cream cheese pasta