merkts Recipes
merkts Recipes
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Merkts Broccoli Pasta Bake
Merkts Broccoli Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy baked ziti dish that’s rich in flavor and comfort. Tender ziti is mixed with Merkts cheese and heavy cream for a velvety sauce, then baked to perfection. Its topped with fresh broccoli florets and a layer of shredded gouda, then baked some more! A sprinkle of BBQ seasoning adds a smoky, savory kick to the cheesy goodness, making this easy dish a crowd-pleasing blend of creamy, crunchy, and flavorful elements. Perfect for a cozy dinner or gathering!
- yield: 4 servings
- serving Size: 1 1/2 cup
- cook Time: 15 minutes
How to Make It
- Preheat oven to 375° F
- Boil Ziti Pasta. Cook the Ziti Pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it’s boiled to al dente.
- Prepare the Casserole Dish. In a large casserole dish, spread the Ziti pasta evenly over the entire surface. Create a well in the center of the dish.
- Add Merkts Cheese Spread: Empty the Merkts cheese spread into center of the dish, ensuring it is evenly spread.
- Pour Heavy Cream. Pour 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream over the pasta, ensuring that the cream coats the pasta evenly.
- Bake Covered. Cover the casserole dish with tinfoil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Prepare Broccoli and Gouda Cheese: Remove the dish from the oven, uncover it and place the steamed broccoli florets over the entire pasta surface. Then, sprinkle shredded gouda cheese over the top.
- Melt the Cheese. Cover the dish with the tinfoil again and place it back in the oven for 5 minutes or until the gouda cheese is melted.
- Serve and Season. Once done, serve the baked ziti and season it with your choice of BBQ seasoning
- Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks to soak up the creamy sauce and add a crunchy texture.
- Pair with a fresh, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A simple lemon or balsamic dressing works perfectly.
- Offer crushed red pepper flakes for those who like to add a little bit of heat to their cheesy pasta.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to complement the creamy pasta and add a variety of textures.