This Zesty Italian Macaroni is the ultimate weeknight hero—elbow pasta baked in a creamy, herb-flecked tomato sauce with melted mozzarella, all made with just 4 simple ingredients. Inspired by classic Italian-American baked ziti, it’s tangy, comforting, and deeply satisfying—without the fuss.
No pre-cooking sauce. No extra dishes. Just bold flavor, straight from pantry to oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍝 Only 4 ingredients—pantry staples!
- ⏱️ 10 minutes prep, 20–25 minutes bake
- đź’› One pot + one baking dish = easy cleanup
- đź’¸ Costs under $6—feeds 6 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free (use GF pasta)
Ingredients You’ll Need
(9x13-inch baking dish; serves 6)
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or penne, uncooked
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (look for one with basil/oregano)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or garlic powder
đź’ˇ Pro Tips:
- Use uncooked pasta—it absorbs liquid as it bakes.
- Choose a robust marinara—avoid “smooth” or “sweet” varieties.
- Layer cheese on top last for a golden, melty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Savory, Foolproof)
1. Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Combine Base Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix uncooked pasta, marinara sauce, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Optional: Add red pepper flakes or garlic powder for extra zing.
3. Transfer & Top
