Baked Ziti with Four Cheeses

Baked Ziti with Four Cheeses is a comforting classic that has warmed dining tables for generations. This dish takes the beloved hearty flavors of traditional baked pasta and elevates it with a luxurious blend of four distinct cheeses: creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and rich gorgonzola. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, from the soft, succulent pasta to the crispy, golden cheese topping. The aroma of herbs and melted cheeses fills the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather around.

Ingredients

Serving Size

• Serves 6 people

Grocery Items Needed

• Ziti pasta: 1 pound
• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese, grated: 1/2 cup
• Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled: 1/2 cup
• Tomato sauce: 3 cups
• Fresh basil, chopped: 1/4 cup
• Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes (optional): 1/4 teaspoon

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until it is just shy of al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the tomato sauce to the skillet, along with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the tomato sauce. Then, fold in the ricotta, mozzarella, and gorgonzola cheeses, reserving some mozzarella for topping.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Expert Tips

• For an extra crispy top, place the baking dish under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• If you prefer a less intense blue cheese flavor, reduce the gorgonzola to 1/4 cup and increase the mozzarella or ricotta accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this decadent Baked Ziti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. The richness of the pasta pairs wonderfully with the crisp, light elements of the salad, making for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

• Calories: 580
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 890mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 64g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 28g

Allergic Information: Contains Dairy and Wheat.

Feel free to share this recipe and try your own variations to make it uniquely yours. Experiment with different cheeses or add some cooked vegetables to the mix for added flavor and texture. Cooking is a creative process, and each modification can help create a new culinary delight. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!