Ziti Al Forno (neapolitan-style Baked Ziti)

Ziti al Forno, also known as Neapolitan-style Baked Ziti, is a classic Italian pasta dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. This hearty and comforting dish features ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all baked to perfection.

Vegetarian Pasta Neapolitan Italian Cuisine Baked Pasta Cheesy
Ziti Al Forno (neapolitan-style Baked Ziti)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
  5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let the ziti al forno rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil if desired.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
40 minutes
Total time:
1 hour
Cooking method
Oven-baked

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
450 per serving
Carbohydrates
45g
Protein
20g
Fat
20g

Supplies

9x13 inch baking dish Foil

Tools

Baking oven

Serving suggestions

Serve the ziti al forno with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.

Tips & tricks

For a meaty version, add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef to the pasta mixture before baking.

Cost

$15