Baked Ziti Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Ziti is easy to make, customizable, and packed with delicious flavors. Here’s why it’s a go-to meal:

• Cheesy & Comforting: Layers of gooey cheese and savory sauce make every bite satisfying.

• Simple to Prepare: Minimal effort required, with ingredients that are easy to find.

• Perfect for a Crowd: Great for feeding a large group, and easy to prepare ahead of time.

• Customizable: Use different meats or add vegetables to make it your own.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce

• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: chopped parsley or basil for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook Pasta: Cook ziti pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.

3. Cook Meat: In a skillet, brown the ground beef (or sausage) with chopped onion. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

4. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, half the mozzarella, half the Parmesan, and a pinch of salt.

5. Assemble Layers: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish. Add half the pasta, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers.

6. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

7. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Rest and Serve: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15–20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

• Total Time: 50–60 minutes

• Servings: 8

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit meat and add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.

• Spicy: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes.

• Lighter Version: Swap ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

• Freezing: Freeze wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

What pasta is best for baked ziti?

Ziti is traditional, but penne or rigatoni works well too.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, it freezes well before or after baking.

Do I have to use ricotta?

You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or béchamel sauce.

How do I avoid overcooked pasta?

Cook pasta just until al dente, as it will cook further in the oven.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Yes, a good-quality marinara or pasta sauce is perfect.

What meat is best for baked ziti?

Ground beef or Italian sausage adds great flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Cover with foil during the first part of baking, then uncover to brown the top.

Can I make it meatless?

Yes, skip the meat and add more veggies or cheese.

What sides go well with baked ziti?

Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are great options.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, offering cheesy, saucy goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for feeding a crowd, making ahead, or just enjoying at home, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit!