Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dining table. This cheesy, hearty casserole is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or meal prep. With layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 15 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is about 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) contains around 400 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 25g fat, and 800mg sodium. This nutritional information is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
5. Add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
6. Stir in marinara sauce; let simmer for 5 minutes.
7. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
8. In a large baking dish, layer half of the ziti, followed by half of the marinara mixture.
9. Spread the ricotta mixture over the sauce, then add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with turkey or use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. Additionally, swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter version.
Serving and Pairings
Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables, making it a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze baked ziti for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the pasta can lead to a mushy texture.
– Not letting the dish rest before serving may cause it to fall apart.
– Skipping the foil can dry out the top layer.
– Using low-quality cheese can affect flavor.
– Not seasoning the meat properly will result in blandness.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor.
– Let the baked ziti sit for 10 minutes before serving for better slicing.
– Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
– For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes in the sauce.
FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just adjust baking time as needed.
What type of cheese is best for baked ziti?
A combination of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan works best for flavor and texture. You can also experiment with provolone or fontina.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you prefer.
Is baked ziti a good make-ahead meal?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it and bake it later, making it great for busy days.
How do I know when baked ziti is done?
It’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are lightly browned. A knife inserted should come out hot.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of cheese, pasta, and sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize it to your taste, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings everyone together.
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the ziti, followed by half of the marinara mixture.
- Spread the ricotta mixture over the sauce, then add half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
