One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet

If you’re craving a warm and hearty meal, look no further than One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet. I remember the chilly evenings when all I wanted was something comforting, and this dish quickly became a family favorite. It’s not just about the rich flavors of melted cheese and ziti; it’s the simplicity of preparing everything in one pan that makes it so appealing. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, it never fails to impress. I love how it combines the classic Italian taste with minimal cleanup, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, with ingredients like garlic, ricotta, and mozzarella, each bite is a delightful experience. So, gather your family around the table and enjoy this delicious dish together, creating memorable moments over a meal that warms the soul.

What You’ll Need for One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet

When making One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet, the right ingredients are crucial for achieving that delightful flavor and texture. Each component plays a unique role, coming together to create a marvelous dish. The blend of creamy ricotta, tangy crushed tomatoes, and gooey mozzarella creates layers of flavor that make every bite memorable.

• 6 cloves of garlic, minced – Essential for flavor; it adds a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish.
• 4 teaspoons of olive oil, divided – This helps sauté the garlic for a fragrant base.
• ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes – For a hint of heat that balances the creaminess.
• Salt and pepper – Key seasonings that enhance the overall taste.
• 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes – The heart of the sauce, providing a rich and tangy flavor.
• 3 cups of water – Helps cook the pasta to perfection.
• 12 ounces of ziti pasta – The main carbohydrate, it absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
• 4 ounces (1/2 cup) of whole-milk ricotta – Adds creaminess and richness.
• ¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, divided – For that cheesy goodness throughout the dish.
• ½ cup of heavy cream – Makes the dish luxurious and rich.
• ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil – For a fresh and aromatic touch.
• 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded – The gooey topping that pulls everything together.

Cooking Instructions for One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet

Cooking One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet is a straightforward process, and I can assure you it’s well worth the effort. Each step is simple, yet the result is incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into how to create this comforting meal.

1. Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat your oven to 475 degrees. This temperature ensures the cheese gets beautifully browned and bubbly.
2. In a 12-inch oven-safe nonstick skillet, combine 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Sauté over medium-high heat until the garlic is fragrant, about 1 minute. You want to be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, water, ziti, and another 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the skillet. Stir everything together, ensuring the ziti is submerged in the liquid.
4. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring often, over medium heat. Adjust the heat to maintain a vigorous simmer, cooking until the ziti is almost tender, about 12 to 15 minutes. You want it to be firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
5. While the pasta cooks, prepare the ricotta mixture. In a bowl, combine the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil, ricotta, 1/4 cup of Parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Once the ziti is almost cooked, stir in heavy cream, 1/2 cup of Parmesan, and basil into the pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The combination of these ingredients will create a rich and satisfying sauce.
7. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the pasta mixture to a shallow 2-quart casserole dish. Top it with dollops of the ricotta mixture, spacing them out evenly, and sprinkle the mozzarella over the top.
8. Transfer the skillet or casserole dish to the oven and bake until the cheese has melted and browned, about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that golden crust on top.
9. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle with the remaining tablespoon of fresh basil before serving. This adds a lovely color and flavor.

Tips for Success

To ensure your One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet turns out perfectly, here are some tips to consider. These insights will help you achieve the best results and make the cooking experience enjoyable.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it well and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Pairing: Serve this dish alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread to enhance the meal experience. A light green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Try Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference. Adding fontina or asiago can bring new flavors.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can add nutritional value and extra flavors, making the dish even more nutritious.

Perfect Pairings for One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet

When serving One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your meal. They not only complement the flavors but also enhance the overall dining experience.

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! The crispy and buttery texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta, making for a balanced meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve some roasted zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers on the side for a colorful and healthy accompaniment.
• Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a light white wine can complement the dish beautifully, enhancing the experience without overpowering it.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family gatherings or celebrations, providing satisfaction and joy to everyone around the table.
• Potluck Dishes: Consider bringing this dish to potlucks; it’s always a hit and likely to disappear quickly!

FAQ

Conclusion

One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with the convenience of a one-pan meal. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings where you want to impress without a ton of effort. I encourage you to try making it soon; your family will be asking for seconds!

One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet

The ultimate comfort food, One Pan Baked Ziti Skillet is a creamy, cheesy delight that satisfies your cravings. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy dish combines ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese all in one pan. You’ll love how quickly it comes together!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 cloves garlic minced
• 4 teaspoons olive oil divided
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• salt and pepper
• 1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 3 cups water
• 12 ounces ziti pasta 3¾ cups
• 4 ounces whole-milk ricotta 1/2 cup
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded

Equipment

• Grater
• Saucepan
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position and preheat oven to 475 degrees.
2. Combine 1 tablespoon oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a 12-inch oven-safe nonstick skillet and sauté over medium-high heat until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, water, ziti, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
4. Cover and cook, stirring often and adjusting heat as needed to maintain vigorous simmer, until ziti is almost tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Make sure you don't cook it too much; it will continue to cook in the oven.
5. While the pasta is cooking, combine ricotta, remaining 1 teaspoon olive oil, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper in a bowl. Set aside.
6. Stir in heavy cream, 1/2 cup Parmesan, and basil into the pasta and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. At this point, if your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the pasta mixture into a shallow 2-quart casserole dish before sprinkling with the ricotta and cheese and baking. If you're really against turning on the oven, you could cover the skillet with a lid and melt the cheese that way, but it won't get browned and toasty.
8. Add dollops of the ricotta mixture with a spoon on top of the pasta and sprinkle mozzarella evenly over ziti.
9. Transfer skillet to oven and bake until cheese has melted and browned, about 5 to 10 minutes. Let cool slightly and sprinkle with remaining tablespoon of basil. Serve.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it well and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
• Tip 3: Serve this dish alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread to enhance the meal experience. A light green salad balances the richness of the pasta.
• Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preference. Adding fontina or asiago can bring new flavors.
• Tip 5: Incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can add nutritional value and extra flavors, making the dish even more nutritious.

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Meet Adele Mercer

Every meal deserves a spectacular finish, whether it is a savory main or a sweet treat. I enjoy the entire creative cycle, from kneading dough to editing the final photos. I developed this recipe to be approachable for home cooks while ensuring it delivers the high-quality results you expect.