There’s nothing quite like the aroma of baked ziti wafting through the house, wrapping you in a warm, cheesy hug. Picture layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella bubbling away in your oven. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an Italian family kitchen, where love is stirred into every pot. For more inspiration, check out this Philly cheesesteak pasta recipe recipe.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for baked ziti
- How to Make baked ziti
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What is baked ziti?
- How do I store leftover baked ziti?
- Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
- What can I serve with baked ziti?
- Conclusion for baked ziti:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Let me take you back to my first attempt at making baked ziti. I was feeling ambitious and thought I could impress my friends with my culinary prowess. Spoiler alert: it was a glorious mess of cheese and sauce! But as we dug into that bubbling casserole, laughter and good vibes filled the air, proving that even kitchen disasters can lead to delicious memories. sweet corn spoonbread casserole Baked ziti is perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings that call for hearty comfort food.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked ziti recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, so you can spend more time eating than cooking.
- The flavor profile hits all the right notes—savory, cheesy, and just a hint of sweetness from the marinara.
- Its vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies!
Ingredients for baked ziti
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ziti Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully; you can use penne if you can’t find ziti.
- Marinara Sauce: Go for a robust store-bought version or whip up your homemade sauce using crushed tomatoes and spices.
- Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess to the dish; look for whole milk ricotta for richer flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella provides that gooey melted goodness; don’t skimp on this!
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds depth and sharpness; fresh is always better!
- Ground Beef or Sausage: For those who like a meaty twist; feel free to use turkey or skip meat altogether for a vegetarian option.
For the Seasoning:
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor; grab some dried oregano and basil if you’re out.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make baked ziti
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to avoid any cheesy disasters later.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your ziti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain it well and set aside while you prepare everything else.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary. Stir in about two cups of marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning to give it some pizzazz!
Step 4: Mix Cheeses
In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of your mozzarella (saving some for topping), a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a dash of salt and pepper. Blend it all together until creamy.
Step 5: Layer It Up
In your prepared baking dish, start layering! Begin with some meat sauce at the bottom, followed by half of your cooked pasta. Then spread half of your ricotta mixture over it. Repeat this process—more meat sauce, remaining pasta, and finish with remaining ricotta.
Step 6: Top It Off
Spread any leftover marinara on top and cover generously with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this delightful meal that brings comfort right into your home!
You Must Know
- Baked ziti is more than just a comforting dish; it brings warmth and joy to any gathering.
- You can easily adjust ingredients based on your pantry.
- Its rich flavors and cheesy goodness make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start with boiling the pasta until al dente while you brown the meat and sauté the onions. Prepare the sauce simultaneously, then combine everything before layering with cheese for that ultimate baked ziti experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses such as ricotta, mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or enjoy it cold if you’re feeling adventurous!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cheesy baked ziti, use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
- Always let it rest before serving to avoid sogginess.
- Don’t skimp on the seasoning; it’s key to elevating your dish!
When I first made baked ziti for my friends, they devoured it so quickly that I thought I’d need to order pizza as backup! It became an instant favorite at our game nights.
FAQs:
What is baked ziti?
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. It typically includes ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The dish is layered and baked until bubbly and golden, making it a comforting option for family dinners or gatherings. classic Chicken Parmesan recipe Many variations exist, such as adding vegetables or meats to enhance flavor. baked crunchy hot honey chicken This hearty meal is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks.
How do I store leftover baked ziti?
To store leftover baked ziti, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to three days. You can also freeze baked ziti for longer storage; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, reheat the dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions. This makes it convenient for meal prep and quick dinners throughout the week.
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can easily make baked ziti ahead of time. Prepare the dish according to your recipe but do not bake it immediately. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can assemble the baked ziti and freeze it unbaked for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply bake from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
What can I serve with baked ziti?
Baked ziti pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. A fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are excellent options for soaking up extra sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus alongside your baked ziti. These sides create a balanced dinner that everyone will love.
Conclusion for baked ziti:
In summary, baked ziti is a beloved dish that combines pasta, cheese, and savory tomato sauce into one delightful casserole. It’s versatile and can be made ahead of time or customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you serve it during family gatherings or enjoy leftovers throughout the week, this comfort food never disappoints. With simple preparation methods and countless variations available, you’ll find yourself making baked ziti again and again! For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe recipe.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Ziti
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked ziti is a comforting Italian-American casserole featuring layers of al dente pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a delicious blend of cheeses. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, offering a satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its gooey cheese and rich flavors, baked ziti is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- Layer half of the meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish, followed by half of the cooked ziti, then half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layering with remaining ingredients.
- Spread any leftover marinara on top and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
