Cozy Up to the Holidays: Easy Baked Ziti for Your Christmas Table

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The holiday season is all about gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter, and enjoying comfort food that warms the heart. One dish that never fails to deliver that cozy, festive feeling is a classic baked ziti. This Christmas Cheesy Easy Baked Ziti brings together everything you love about holiday meals — tender pasta, gooey melted cheese, and a rich tomato sauce — all in one satisfying dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or serving as a hearty dinner on a cold winter night, this recipe is a must-have for your holiday menu.

This dish combines simplicity and flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy families during the holiday season. It’s also customizable, allowing you to add personal touches like Italian sausage or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering or just looking for a comforting meal to enjoy by the fireplace, this baked ziti will not disappoint.

Recipe: Christmas Cheesy Easy Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti noodles
• 24 oz tomato pasta sauce
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 15 oz ricotta cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil the ziti in salted water as per the package instructions. Drain and return to the pot.
3. In a large bowl, mix together half of the mozzarella cheese, the ricotta, and the pasta sauce until well combined.
4. Add the cooked ziti to the cheese and sauce mixture and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
5. Grease a large baking dish with nonstick spray and pour in the ziti mixture, spreading it evenly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve hot, and enjoy with garlic bread or a side salad.

This baked ziti can also be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for Christmas dinner. Assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. If you prefer a more savory twist, try adding ground beef or Italian sausage to the sauce before mixing it with the pasta.

The Perfect Holiday Comfort Food

This baked ziti recipe is the ideal way to feed a hungry crowd during the holidays. Its simplicity allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. With its creamy layers of ricotta and mozzarella cheese paired with flavorful pasta sauce, this dish is sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether it's Christmas Eve dinner or a cozy winter weeknight, this easy-to-make dish brings joy and comfort to the table.

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