Why Make This Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a classic dish that warms the heart and soul. Its layers of cheesy goodness, tender pasta, and savory meat sauce create a comfort food experience that everyone loves. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or meal-prepping for the week, baked ziti checks all the boxes as a satisfying, easy-to-make meal. It’s also budget-friendly and is perfect for feeding a crowd or having delicious leftovers for days.
How to Make Baked Ziti
Making baked ziti is straightforward and requires just a bit of cooking know-how. The process starts with cooking the ziti pasta until it’s perfectly al dente, then sautéing some onions and garlic in olive oil for that aromatic touch. You’ll brown up some ground beef or Italian sausage, mix everything together with a rich marinara sauce, and layer it with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. Finally, it all goes into the oven for a delicious bake that melts the cheese and melds the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, making sure to break it up with a spoon.
- Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Combine the pasta mixture with the meat sauce until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information
For a serving size of about 1 cup, baked ziti typically contains approximately:
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and preparations.
How to Serve Baked Ziti
Baked ziti makes for an inviting centerpiece on your dining table. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, perhaps with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. For a touch of elegance, garnish each serving with fresh basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy dinners on a chilly evening.
How to Store Baked Ziti
Storing baked ziti is simple and helps retain its rich flavors. Allow any leftovers to cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it al dente is crucial because it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Mix cheeses: Combining ricotta with mozzarella adds extra creaminess, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cottage cheese or even a bit of goat cheese for an interesting twist.
- Simmer for flavor: Letting your sauce simmer for longer allows the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Swap the meat for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add some spinach for extra nutrition.
- Mexican Baked Ziti: Use a spicy salsa instead of marinara, and stir in black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a fun twist. Top with pepper jack cheese for a kick!
- Pesto Baked Ziti: Incorporate pesto into the meat sauce or mix it directly into the pasta for a bright and herby flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare baked ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.What can I use instead of ziti pasta?
Penne or rigatoni are great alternatives if you can’t find ziti. Just ensure the pasta is a similar shape.How do I reheat baked ziti?
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be careful not to dry it out.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings everyone together. Its rich flavors, cheesy texture, and hearty ingredients make it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, following this recipe will surely impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and enjoy the delightful process of creating this family favorite. Happy cooking!
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, making sure to break it up with a spoon.
- Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Combine the pasta mixture with the meat sauce until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.