Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta bake that’s surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this Ultimate Creamy Baked Ziti with Broccoli and Alfredo Sauce! This recipe is my go-to for weeknight dinners when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly cooked ziti, and tender broccoli create a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.
Imagine the rich, cheesy aroma filling your kitchen as this beauty bakes – pure comfort food heaven! You’ll taste the satisfying creaminess of the Alfredo sauce coating each strand of perfectly cooked ziti. The broccoli adds a healthy touch of freshness and a delightful crunch, creating an exciting contrast to the smooth sauce and tender pasta. This dish is quick enough for a busy weeknight, yet impressive enough to serve at a family gathering. Get ready to experience pure pasta perfection!
Beyond the incredible taste, this baked ziti offers several benefits. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies (hello, broccoli!), making it a healthier and more balanced meal. It’s also perfect for meal prepping – make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? This recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite, bringing warmth and deliciousness to your table. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
What You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience. Here’s your shopping list:
- 300g Ziti pasta: The ridged shape of ziti perfectly holds the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 2 cups Broccoli florets: Adds a healthy dose of vitamins and a pleasant crunch.
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce: You can use store-bought for convenience, or make your own from scratch for a truly personalized touch.
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese: Provides that classic, stretchy, gooey cheese pull we all adore.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Adds a sharp, salty counterpoint to the rich Alfredo sauce.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Essential for adding depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil: For sautéing the garlic and broccoli.
- Fresh basil or parsley: A small amount of fresh herbs adds a burst of freshness to the finished dish.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s embark on this cheesy adventure! Follow these simple steps to create your ultimate creamy baked ziti:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Sauté the Broccoli & Garlic: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then, add the broccoli florets and sauté for 3-5 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Tip: Don’t overcook the broccoli, or it will become mushy.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sautéed broccoli and garlic mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Some Alfredo sauces are saltier than others.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the ziti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Tip: Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
- Garnish & Serve: Once baked, let the ziti rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Here are a few extra tips to ensure your baked ziti turns out perfectly every time:
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember, it will continue to cook in the oven. Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Use a good quality Alfredo sauce: The flavor of the sauce is crucial to the overall dish. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a higher-quality brand if you’re using store-bought.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give the ziti enough space to bake evenly. If necessary, use two smaller baking dishes instead of one large one.
- Check for doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your ziti during the baking process. If the cheese is browning too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil.
- Let it rest: Allowing the ziti to rest for a few minutes before serving helps it set and prevents a messy, soupy presentation.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun ways to customize this recipe:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick.
- Meat lover’s version: Add cooked sausage, ground beef, or chicken to the ziti mixture for extra protein.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the meat with mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free ziti pasta.
- Cheese variations: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta, provolone, or fontina.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover baked ziti is just as delicious the next day! Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, allow the ziti to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. For the best results, add a splash of milk or cream to the reheated ziti to restore some of its moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this Creamy Baked Ziti recipe:
- Can I use a different type of pasta? While ziti is ideal due to its ridges, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini. Keep in mind that the cooking time might need adjusting.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the ziti before baking and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs can be substituted, but use about 1/3 the amount indicated in the recipe.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
- How long does it last in the fridge? Stored properly in an airtight container, the baked ziti will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
The Final Word
This Ultimate Creamy Baked Ziti with Broccoli and Alfredo Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! The combination of creamy Alfredo, tender ziti, and crunchy broccoli creates a truly irresistible dish. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. So, give this recipe a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turned out. And if you loved it, please give it a rating – I’d appreciate it! Happy cooking!
Creamy Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
Ingredients
Produce
- 1 Basil or parsley Fresh
- 2 cups Broccoli florets
- 2 cloves Garlic
Pasta and Cheese
- 300 g Ziti pasta
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, steam or sauté broccoli florets until tender-crisp.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, broccoli, alfredo sauce, and half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
- Let cool slightly before serving.