Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? This Baked Ziti Sheet Pan with Garlic Bread Crust Delight is a meal that is simple, tasty, and fun to make. Imagine layers of cheesy pasta topped with a crispy garlic bread crust. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving comfort food, this dish is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delicious feast!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Baked Ziti
To make this dish, you need the following main ingredients:
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 pound Italian sausage (or plant-based sausage)
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
These ingredients create a hearty ziti base. The ziti pasta holds sauce well. The Italian sausage adds rich flavor. If you prefer a plant-based option, use plant-based sausage. The marinara sauce ties everything together.
Essential Ingredients for Garlic Bread Crust
For the delicious garlic bread crust, gather these key items:
– 1 large baguette
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
This garlic bread crust adds a crispy, buttery layer. The baguette is perfect for soaking up the sauce. The garlic and parsley bring fresh flavor.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
You can enhance your dish with these optional add-ins:
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
– Fresh basil for garnish
Adding red pepper flakes gives a nice kick. Fresh basil adds a pop of color and taste. Feel free to mix and match these options to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps for Baked Ziti
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook 12 oz of ziti pasta until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and 1 diced bell pepper. Cook this mix for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
Then, add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is browned and fully cooked. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir in a 24 oz jar of marinara sauce and the cooked ziti pasta. Mix everything well, then remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
Spread the pasta mixture evenly in a large baking sheet.
Creating the Garlic Bread Crust
For the garlic bread crust, slice a large baguette in half lengthwise. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 2 minced garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Spread this garlic butter on both halves of the baguette.
Place the baguette halves on the baking sheet around the ziti.
Baking and Final Touches
Now, dollop 1 ½ cups of ricotta cheese over the pasta mixture. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake everything in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Look for bubbly and golden cheese. If the garlic bread crust browns too fast, cover it with aluminum foil.
Once baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and serve directly from the sheet pan. Garnish with extra parsley and offer crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. Enjoy your delicious baked ziti!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Ziti
To make perfect baked ziti, follow these steps:
– Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Cook the ziti just until firm. This keeps it from getting mushy when baked.
– Season the Meat Well: If using sausage, make sure to season it with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. This adds great flavor.
– Mix Carefully: When combining the pasta with sauce and meat, stir gently. This keeps the ziti intact.
Achieving the Best Garlic Bread Crust
A great garlic bread crust makes the dish shine. Here’s how:
– Use Softened Butter: This helps spread the garlic mix easily.
– Add Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley gives your garlic bread a fresh taste.
– Watch the Oven: If the bread browns too fast, cover it with foil. This helps it bake evenly.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Ziti
When serving baked ziti, presentation matters:
– Serve from the Sheet Pan: This keeps it casual and fun.
– Add a Garnish: Sprinkle extra parsley on top for color.
– Offer Extras: Set out a bowl of crushed red pepper flakes. This lets guests add heat if they want.
Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Just skip the Italian sausage. Use a plant-based sausage for a similar taste. You can also add more veggies like mushrooms or spinach. These will give extra flavor and texture.
For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese. Replace ricotta with a mix of cashews and nutritional yeast. This will keep the creaminess without any dairy. Use olive oil instead of butter on the garlic bread.
Gluten-Free Alternatives for Ziti
To make this dish gluten-free, swap the ziti pasta for gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, like chickpea or rice pasta. Check the cooking time, as it may differ from regular pasta.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs on the garlic bread for extra crunch. Just mix them with the garlic butter for a tasty topping.
Different Cheese Combinations
Cheese is key to this dish. You can mix and match different types of cheese. Try using provolone or gouda for a unique twist. For more flavor, add feta or goat cheese to the ricotta mix.
If you like a spicy kick, sprinkle some pepper jack cheese on top. It melts well and adds a nice heat. You can also use a blend of cheeses to create a rich, layered taste.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Baked Ziti
To store leftover baked ziti, first let it cool. Once cool, transfer it to an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure to cover it tightly. Leftover ziti can last in the fridge for up to three days. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ziti in an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of marinara sauce if it looks dry. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until it’s hot all the way through. You can also microwave it in a bowl for a quicker option. Just heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Freezing Guidance for Future Meals
If you want to freeze baked ziti, do it before baking. Assemble the dish but do not bake it yet. Cover it well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, bake it at 400°F (200°C) until bubbly and golden, usually about 25-30 minutes. Enjoy a tasty meal with ease!
FAQs
How do I make my ziti creamier?
To make your ziti creamier, add more ricotta cheese. You can mix it with a bit of heavy cream. This will give you a rich, smooth texture. Stir in some extra mozzarella too. It melts well and adds creaminess.
You can also try using cream cheese. Blend it into the ricotta for a richer taste. Another option is to sprinkle in some grated Parmesan. This will enhance the flavor and creaminess.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use a different type of pasta! Ziti is great, but you can swap it out for penne or rigatoni. Just make sure to cook it until it’s al dente. This means it will still have a little bite when you mix it with the sauce.
You can even try using gluten-free pasta if needed. Just follow the cooking time on the package. The important part is to avoid mushy pasta. Nobody likes a soggy baked dish!
How long can I store baked ziti in the fridge?
You can store baked ziti in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh and tasty.
When you want to eat it again, just reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you’re using the oven, cover it with foil to keep it moist. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!
Baked ziti is a delightful dish made from simple ingredients. We explored the main items needed and how to create a tasty garlic bread crust. You learned step-by-step instructions to prepare and bake your ziti, along with tips for a perfect meal. We discussed variations to suit everyone’s taste and shared essential storage tips. Embrace these ideas to make your baked ziti a hit. Enjoy the fun of cooking and let your creativity shine. Happy baking!
