Before diving into the delicious depths of San Giorgio Baked Ziti, let’s chat about what to serve alongside this classic Italian dish.
A crisp, green salad pairs beautifully with the comforting, cheesy layers of baked ziti. Think mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. It cuts through the richness of the pasta, balancing your meal. Garlic bread is another favorite; the crunchy, buttery sticks are perfect for scooping up cheesy goodness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add some roasted vegetables for a hearty side. Grilled zucchini and asparagus bring a lovely freshness that complements the flavors in the ziti.
I’ll never forget the first time I tasted baked ziti. A friend invited me over for dinner, and I was instantly smitten by the layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce. The warm, comforting approach of this dish made it feel like a cozy hug on a plate.
Fast forward to today, and I’m sharing my take on this timeless recipe: San Giorgio Baked Ziti. This meal is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even potlucks. It’s simple to make yet tastes like a dish that’s been passed down through generations. So, let’s get cooking!
What is San Giorgio Baked Ziti?
San Giorgio Baked Ziti is not just your average pasta dish. It’s made with San Giorgio® Ziti Rigati pasta, a classic entry in the Italian-American culinary world. The rigati shape—meaning “striped” in Italian—holds onto the rich marinara or tomato-basil sauce perfectly. Add in layers of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a splash of freshly chopped herbs, and you have a dish that sings with flavor.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
Imagine a culinary journey that starts off with sweet and tangy tomatoes. They give that comforting base that we all associate with Italian cuisine. The ricotta adds a nice creaminess, balancing the acidity of the sauce. Meanwhile, mozzarella melts into a deliciously gooey blanket with that stretchy pull that we crave in cheesy dishes. Finally, sprinkle in freshly cracked black pepper and parsley, and you’ve got freshness kicking in nicely. Altogether, it creates an experience that’s both hearty and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This?
You’re going to adore San Giorgio Baked Ziti because it’s a crowd-pleaser. Here’s why:
- Easy to make: This dish requires minimal preparation and offers maximum flavor.
- Feed a crowd: It’s substantial enough to serve at gatherings without breaking a sweat.
- Customizable: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or proteins.
- Saves well: Leftovers, if there are any, make for fantastic lunches later.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:
- 1 jar (24 oz) of your favorite marinara or tomato-basil sauce
- 16 oz San Giorgio® Ziti Rigati pasta
- 1/4 cup sautéed onions
- 15 oz creamy ricotta cheese
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese blend
- 1 large egg, lightly whisked
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped Italian parsley
- 1 tsp fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp roasted garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect time to start boiling the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the San Giorgio® Ziti Rigati and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Don’t forget to stir occasionally! Once done, drain it well, and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions in a little oil until translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, you’ll be ready to dive in.
Step 4: Mix the Cheeses
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, whisked egg, sautéed onions, parsley, oregano, roasted garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds a creamy layer that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Prepare the Ziti Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti and the marinara sauce. Gently fold in the cheese mixture until everything is well incorporated.
Step 6: Layer the Dish
Take a large baking dish and start layering. Spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese blend. Add the remaining ziti on top and finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Step 7: Bake It Up
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and extra parsley for a pop of color. Now, dig in!
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh herbs whenever possible.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue to cook in the oven, make sure it’s al dente.
- Experiment with Cheese: Swap out mozzarella for provolone or add a layer of ricotta for extra creaminess.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Add Veggies: Consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an added nutritional boost.
Nutrition Information
How Can You Store This San Giorgio Baked Ziti?
Storing leftovers is effortless. Allow the dish to cool completely after baking. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if needed.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
Sometimes, you may find yourself missing a few ingredients. Here are some alternatives to use:
1. Ricotta Cheese Alternatives: If you’re out of ricotta, consider using cottage cheese. Blend it for a smoother texture that mimics ricotta. You can even use a vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
2. Marinara Sauce Variations: If you don’t have marinara, any tomato sauce will do. You can also mix crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs as a quick substitute.
3. Cheese Swaps: If mozzarella isn’t available, try Gruyère or fontina cheese for a unique twist. These will still give you that gooey texture, while adding a touch of flavor.
San Giorgio Baked Ziti Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- Large pot
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 jar 24 oz of your favorite marinara or tomato-basil sauce
- 16 oz San Giorgio® Ziti Rigati pasta
- 1/4 cup sautéed onions
- 15 oz creamy ricotta cheese
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese blend
- 1 large egg lightly whisked
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped Italian parsley
- 1 tsp fresh oregano leaves finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp roasted garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect time to start boiling the pasta.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the San Giorgio® Ziti Rigati and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Don’t forget to stir occasionally! Once done, drain it well, and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onions in a little oil until translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, you’ll be ready to dive in.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, whisked egg, sautéed onions, parsley, oregano, roasted garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture adds a creamy layer that’s absolutely irresistible.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti and the marinara sauce. Gently fold in the cheese mixture until everything is well incorporated.
- Take a large baking dish and start layering. Spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Then sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese blend. Add the remaining ziti on top and finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes and extra parsley for a pop of color. Now, dig in!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh herbs whenever possible.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since it will continue to cook in the oven, make sure it’s al dente.
- Experiment with Cheese: Swap out mozzarella for provolone or add a layer of ricotta for extra creaminess.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
- Add Veggies: Consider adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for an added nutritional boost.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
San Giorgio Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s a way to bring family and friends together. The flavors are comforting and nostalgic. Each bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can create magic in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish delivers satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves, don that apron, and give this recipe a try. You won’t regret it, and your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking!
