Baked Ziti Recipe
Baked ziti is a comforting Italian-American classic, featuring pasta baked in a rich tomato sauce with layers of creamy cheese. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for the week. This recipe is easy to make and results in a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Layer the remaining pasta, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tips
For extra flavor, use Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more texture. To make it ahead, assemble the ziti and refrigerate for up to a day before baking.
FAQs
- Can I make baked ziti ahead of time? Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Can I freeze baked ziti? Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
- How do I reheat baked ziti? Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Can I use penne pasta instead of ziti? Absolutely, penne works as a great substitute for ziti.
Conclusion
This baked ziti recipe is comforting, cheesy, and perfect for any gathering or family dinner. With its layers of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that’s sure to please. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
