Lazy Day Ziti: The Perfect Quick and Easy Comfort Meal
Life can get busy, and sometimes, all you want is a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter Lazy Day Ziti—the perfect dish for when you want something tasty, filling, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a meal to make ahead, this ziti is a true crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love Lazy Day Ziti
Lazy Day Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that combines the richness of melted cheese with savory marinara sauce and tender pasta. What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to make. It’s the perfect solution for busy nights when you need something quick but still want that homemade, comforting taste.
Here’s why this recipe is so effective:
Minimal Prep: You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. Just boil the pasta, layer the ingredients, and bake.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit with the whole family, and great for gatherings too!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple yet flavorful dish:
1 pound of ziti or penne pasta
1 jar of marinara sauce (24 oz)
1 cup of ricotta cheese (You can swap it for cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter option.)
2 cups of grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon of mixed Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
Optional extras:
1/2 pound of cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or any protein you prefer
1 cup of cooked vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers
Directions to Make Lazy Day Ziti
Cook the Pasta:
