Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta is cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper to the sauce for extra flavor. Stir occasionally and let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheeses.
Layer in a Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil (optional). Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly. Pour the marinara sauce over the pasta and use a spoon to spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden.
Serve: Once the Lazy Day Ziti is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then slice and serve.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: Lazy Day Ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra flavor boost.
Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Lazy Day Ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. To reheat in the oven, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Freezing: If you have leftover ziti or want to make it ahead of time, this dish freezes very well. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
Variants:
Meat Lover’s Lazy Day Ziti: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or turkey to the marinara sauce for a heartier version of this dish. You can also use pepperoni or cooked chicken for a different twist.
Vegetarian Lazy Day Ziti: For a lighter option, toss in sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach into the pasta mix before baking.
Spicy Lazy Day Ziti: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce over the top before serving.
Creamy Lazy Day Ziti: For a richer version, mix in a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the marinara sauce to create a creamy tomato sauce. Top with extra mozzarella cheese for a decadent dish.
FAQ:
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! While ziti is the traditional choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce? Absolutely! If you prefer homemade marinara sauce, feel free to use it. The recipe will work just as well with fresh, homemade sauce as with store-bought.
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes! You can prepare Lazy Day Ziti ahead of time. Assemble the dish and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from the fridge.
Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, this version of Lazy Day Ziti is vegetarian. If you prefer a meatless meal, it’s perfect as is. You can also make it vegan by substituting the cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! To make Lazy Day Ziti in a slow cooker, assemble the dish in the slow cooker insert and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a hands-off approach to cooking.
Conclusion: Lazy Day Ziti is the ultimate comfort food for days when you want a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and just one baking dish, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy a flavorful, cheesy pasta dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping a dish for meal prep, Lazy Day Ziti is a versatile and delicious option that everyone will love. Try it today and experience the magic of a stress-free pasta dinner!
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