Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce Recipe

If you’re searching for a creamy, comforting dish that brings together cheesy goodness, vibrant green vegetables, and a cozy Italian twist, let me introduce you to Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce. This crowd-pleasing casserole is all about luscious Alfredo, perfectly cooked pasta, and tender bites of broccoli, all baked until bubbling. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving an easy weeknight wonder, this will quickly become one of your most-loved recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, high-quality ingredients truly make Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce shine. Each item plays its part, from the creamy Alfredo to the golden cheese crust, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor and texture.

• Ziti Pasta: Its sturdy tubes soak up every drop of sauce and bake up perfectly for that delightful, fork-tender bite.
• Broccoli Florets: Add pops of color, nutrients, and a subtle fresh crunch that lightens up the cheesy richness.
• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy, garlicky, and oh-so-luxurious; use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade if you’re feeling fancy.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey strings and forms a beautiful bubbly topping you’ll want to dive into.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty depth that perfectly complements the other cheeses.
• Fresh Garlic, Minced: Sautéed in olive oil, it infuses the whole dish with fragrance and complexity.
• Olive Oil: Helps bloom the garlic flavor, adding Mediterranean warmth to each layer.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors—taste as you go so everything is just right.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley (Optional): Adds an inviting, aromatic finish that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli

Start by boiling the ziti in a big pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Two minutes before the pasta is done, toss in those broccoli florets so they cook just enough to turn bright and tender without losing their beautiful color or crunch. Drain everything together and set aside for the magic to continue.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While your pasta and broccoli cool a bit, warm up olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just about a minute—until the aroma makes you close your eyes in anticipation. Be careful not to let it burn. Remove from the heat right when it’s fragrant to keep all that garlicky goodness.

Step 3: Combine the Basics

Grab a large mixing bowl (or the pot you used for boiling, to save on dishes!). Gently combine the cooked ziti, broccoli, sautéed garlic, and Alfredo sauce. Stir until everything gets an even coating of creamy, garlicky sauce. This is where all that flavor starts to layer up!

Step 4: Assemble & Top

Spoon your saucy mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then the grated Parmesan for a double layer of cheesy goodness. Trust me—it’s worth it for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into your preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and let it bake for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to bubble up and turn deliciously golden on top. Pull it from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before serving—this little rest helps everything set for perfect, mouthwatering slices.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finish your Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce with a shower of fresh basil or parsley if you’d like. Serve warm and watch how everyone’s eyes light up as you bring this masterpiece to the table!

How to Serve Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce

Garnishes

For that final chef’s touch, a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley on top right before serving makes your Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce feel both vibrant and special. If you want even more flavor, add a little more grated Parmesan or a crack of black pepper over each plate for a bit of flair and extra savoriness.

Side Dishes

This creamy, hearty casserole pairs perfectly with simple sides that let it really shine. Think crusty garlic bread for soaking up every bit of sauce, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or even roasted veggies if you’d like to double up on greens. It’s classic comfort food, so keep it easy and unfussy.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce into a showstopper by baking it in individual ramekins for a dinner party or serving in a large, family-style baking dish for homey comfort. If you want to get playful, add a layer of fresh sliced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes on top before baking for extra color and a sweet-tangy kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce is a hero for leftovers! Cool the dish to room temperature, then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it will keep beautifully for 3 to 4 days. The flavors just get better as they mingle overnight!

Freezing

This is a wonderful make-ahead meal. Assemble the dish but don’t bake it; cover tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to heat through completely.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place portions in the oven at 180°C (350°F) covered with foil until heated through, about 20 minutes. For a quick lunch, you can microwave single servings—just add a splash of extra Alfredo sauce if it looks a little dry, and cover with a microwave-safe lid so it stays moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While ziti is classic for Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even rotini work well. Any sturdy, tube-shaped pasta that holds up to baking and soaks up the sauce will do the trick.

What if I want to add some protein?

You can easily stir in cooked shredded chicken, cooked Italian sausage, or even sautéed shrimp for an extra boost of protein. Mix it in with the pasta and sauce before baking, and you have a full meal in one dish.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free ziti or penne. Pay attention to the cook time on the box, as gluten-free pasta can differ from the traditional variety.

How can I make my own Alfredo sauce?

For a homemade twist, make a quick Alfredo by melting butter in a pan, adding cream, and slowly stirring in grated Parmesan along with plenty of black pepper and a pinch of nutmeg. It’s creamy and divine!

What if I or my family don’t like broccoli?

No problem at all. You can swap in spinach, zucchini, or even peas—whatever veggies your crowd loves. The beauty of Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce is how flexible it is to your tastes.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ziti with Broccoli & Alfredo Sauce is the kind of meal that warms both hearts and bellies—it’s bursting with rich, creamy flavors and so easy to put together. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon and share it with those you love. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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