⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

🍽 Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) box Ziti pasta
• 1/4 cup Butter
• 1/4 cup All-purpose flour
• 3 cups Milk
• 1 cup, shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup Ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup, grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup, shredded Provolone cheese
• 1/4 cup, shredded Fontina cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking. Don't skip this step!
2. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well in a colander and set aside. We want it firm, not mushy! I once made the mistake of overcooking it, and let me tell you, it was a disaster.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until smooth. This helps thicken our cheese sauce.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep whisking! Once the sauce starts to thicken, reduce heat to low.
5. Stir in the cheeses one at a time, beginning with the mozzarella, until each one is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Remember to keep stirring, you don't want any burned cheese! My friend burnt hers once… ouch!
6. Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to taste. A little bit of zest always helps, so don't be shy.
7. Add the cooked ziti to the cheese sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Make sure every piece of ziti gets a good coating; that's the key to a delicious bake!
8. Pour the ziti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle with extra Parmesan cheese on top. A nice golden crust is ideal!
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. The bubbly cheese is the ultimate sign it's ready. Watch it carefully to avoid burning!
10. Remove from the oven and let stand for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the ziti to set and makes for easier serving. Patience, my friends!

📝 Notes

• For an extra cheesy experience, add 1/4 cup more mozzarella cheese.
• If you like a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables like spinach or mushrooms!