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Baked Ziti Alfredo White Sauce

A comforting baked ziti dish with creamy Alfredo white sauce, tender pasta, and a generous amount of melted cheese, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Italian
Calories: 2000
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ziti pasta Cooked until al dente.
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter For making the roux.
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour To create the base of the Alfredo sauce.
  • 3 cups whole milk For a creamy sauce.
  • 1.5 cups grated Parmesan cheese Divided into two portions.
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt Adjust based on taste.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper For seasoning.
  • pinch ground nutmeg Enhances the flavor of the sauce.
  • 2 cups shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese Divided for topping.
  • 1 lb cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or grilled chicken Optional addition for protein.
  • Fresh parsley chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta about two minutes less than the package directs. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly.
  3. Slowly whisk in the milk, adding a little at a time until smooth.
  4. Continue cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Combine Ingredients
  1. Remove sauce from heat and stir in 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg until smooth.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. If adding sausage or chicken, mix it in.
Baking
  1. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving
  1. Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezing is an option for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.