Imagine a dish that combines the perfect blend of hearty pasta, rich marinara sauce, and mouthwatering vegetables - a culinary masterpiece that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience. This Baked Ziti with Mushrooms, Peppers, and Parmesan is not just a meal; it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality deliciousness right from your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and chopped bell peppers. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Season the vegetables with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the mixture seems dry.
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to set.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Al Dente is Key: Always cook your pasta just until it's tender but still has a slight bite. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy during baking.
- Don't Skip the Sauté: Take time to properly caramelize your mushrooms and peppers. This develops deeper, richer flavors in your dish.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Moisture Control: If your mixture seems dry, use reserved pasta water to add moisture without diluting flavor.
- Foil Technique: Covering the dish initially helps cook the pasta evenly, while the uncovered final baking creates a delicious golden cheese crust.
- Resting Time: Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the dish set and makes serving easier.
- Customize: Feel free to add protein like ground beef, Italian sausage, or chicken to make the dish even heartier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
