Lazy Day Ziti Recipe
At home, we call this dish “Lazy Day Ziti” because it’s perfect for those hectic days when you want a satisfying, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s cheesy, saucy, and oh-so-delicious. The best part? No one will guess how easy it is to prepare!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Effort: Just layer, bake, and enjoy!
- Family Favorite: Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or meal prep.
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins, veggies, or spices to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta
- 1 jar marinara or pasta sauce (24 oz)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ pound cooked ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 cup cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti until just shy of al dente (about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup of Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well.
3. Assemble the Ziti
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer half the cooked ziti over the sauce.
- Spread half the cheese mixture over the pasta, then top with half the marinara sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, cheese mixture, and sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and ¼ cup of Parmesan on top.
4. Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- For a golden, crispy top, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end.
5. Serve
- Let the ziti cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the ziti the night before, refrigerate, and bake when ready to eat.
- Double the Recipe: This dish freezes wonderfully, so prepare an extra batch for a quick, convenient meal later.
Variations
- Meaty Ziti: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a protein boost.
- Vegetarian Ziti: Layer in cooked veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Spicy Ziti: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for some heat.
Why This Recipe Works
Lazy Day Ziti combines tender pasta, creamy cheese, and rich tomato sauce in a simple yet irresistible dish. The layers of flavor meld beautifully during baking, creating a meal that’s indulgent, comforting, and endlessly adaptable.
Conclusion
Whether you’re short on time or just craving something hearty, Lazy Day Ziti is the ultimate go-to recipe. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a dish that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Try it tonight and make it a staple in your household—you’ll love how simple and delicious it is!