Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a delightful dish that brings a warm and hearty taste to the dinner table. This classic Italian-American recipe consists of pasta beautifully layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, fill-you-up meal perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or when you’re craving something delicious and satisfying. Let’s delve into why this baked ziti should be at the top of your recipe list.

Why Make This Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is incredibly versatile and can fit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual dinner or planning a family feast, this dish never disappoints. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests without being stuck in the kitchen. The combination of ziti pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheeses creates layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to feed a crowd while keeping things simple.

How to Make Baked Ziti

Making Baked Ziti is straightforward and enjoyable, even for beginner cooks. With just a few common ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a deliciously comforting dish in no time. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on this flavorful journey!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and heat through.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture until well mixed.
7. Transfer half of the mixture to a baking dish. Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Add the remaining ziti mixture, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
11. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 30g

How to Serve Baked Ziti

Serve your Baked Ziti hot out of the oven for the best flavor and texture. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly. You might also pair it with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. For a more festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top before serving.

How to Store Baked Ziti

To store leftovers, let the Baked Ziti cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. If you want to store it for longer, freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw and bake as directed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

• Customize Your Meat: Feel free to use turkey or chicken for a lighter option instead of beef or sausage.
• Cheese Variations: Switch up the cheeses! Try adding provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Bake in Muffin Tins: For fun individual servings, portion the ziti into muffin tins before baking.
• Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to sneak in more nutrition.
• Adjust the Spice: If you like heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick!

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Omit the meat and add more cheese and roasted vegetables.
• Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti: Substitute marinara with creamy Alfredo sauce and shredded chicken.
• Pesto Baked Ziti: Mix in basil pesto with your marinara sauce for a fresh twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Ziti before baking or after it’s been cooked. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, bake from frozen, but allow extra time to ensure it heats evenly.

3. What can I serve with Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete Italian meal, serve it with a glass of red wine!

Conclusion

Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort, warmth, and togetherness. Its flavorful layers and inviting aroma make it a staple in many homes. Whether you serve it at a gathering, on a busy weeknight, or just because you feel like indulging, it’s sure to please. So why not don your apron and give this scrumptious dish a try? You and your loved ones deserve a hearty meal that feels like a hug from the inside out!

Baked Ziti

A comforting Italian-American dish featuring layers of ziti pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella cheese, perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Meat

• 1 pound ziti pasta Use ziti or similar pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Can substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option

Sauce and Cheese

• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Can replace with provolone or gouda for variation
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasonings

• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
• Fresh basil for garnish Optional, for serving

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and heat through.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Assembly

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture until well mixed.
2. Transfer half of the mixture to a baking dish. Layer half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
3. Add the remaining ziti mixture, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.

Baking

1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
3. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

You can prepare Baked Ziti in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. For freezing, wrap tightly and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.