Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy baked pasta casserole with melted cheese and rich tomato sauce. Perfect comfort food for family dinner.

Cheesy Baked Ziti

Soft baked bread with golden crust on a rustic wooden board, perfect for breakfast or sandwiches.BakedBree
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 38 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 53 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine italian-american
Servings 8
Calories 508 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 2 ribs celery chopped
  • 2 cups mushrooms sliced
  • 1 pound ziti pasta cooked al dente
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 8 ounces mascarpone
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan finely shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella sliced

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with a light coating of nonstick cooking spray.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until translucent. Add the garlic, celery, and mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5 more minutes. Remove from heat.
    Sautéing mushrooms and onions in a skillet for a flavorful pasta or sauce recipe.
  • In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooked ziti, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian herbs, mascarpone, chopped basil, and half the Parmesan. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
    Fresh vegetable pasta salad with herbs, cheese, and a zesty tomato sauce, served in a large bowl.
  • Spread half the pasta mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Layer with half the mozzarella slices.
    Savory baked pasta casserole with tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs on white ceramic dish.
  • Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
    Creamy baked pasta with melted cheese and grated parmesan, ready to bake or enjoy.
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 7-10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  • Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 508kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 21gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 13gSodium: 936mgFiber: 4g
Keyword baked ziti recipe, baked ziti without meat, cheesy baked ziti, comfort food, easy baked pasta, pasta casserole, vegetarian baked ziti
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!