Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti

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Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses, all baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a satisfying meal.

Baked Ziti

Ingredients List

  • 1 pound ziti pasta

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 4 cups marinara sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Timing

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

  • Servings: 8

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Ziti

Step 1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2. Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3. Mix the Cheese Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

Step 4. Assemble the Dish

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Add half of the cooked ziti, then spread the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Add another layer of meat sauce, followed by the remaining ziti. Top with the remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5. Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6. Serve

Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Baked Ziti

Cheese Variations

  • Ricotta Substitute: Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter alternative to ricotta.

  • Cheese Blend: A mix of mozzarella, provolone, and fontina adds depth of flavor.

  • Parmesan Alternative: Pecorino Romano offers a sharper taste compared to Parmesan.

Protein Options

  • Ground Turkey: A leaner alternative to beef.

  • Vegetarian: Use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach instead of meat.

  • Meatballs: Add sliced cooked meatballs for a different texture.

Herb Enhancements

  • Fresh Basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

  • Thyme and Rosemary: Provide earthy notes to the sauce.

  • Red Pepper Flakes: Introduce a subtle heat to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

  • Green Salad: A crisp salad balances the richness of the ziti.

  • Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: Baked ziti can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Tips for Success

  • Undercook Pasta: Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.

  • Layering: Ensure even layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce for consistent flavor.

  • Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest after baking helps set the layers and makes serving easier.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 450

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbohydrates: 40g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Fiber: 3g

  • Sodium: 800mg

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

What if I don’t have ziti pasta?

Penne or rigatoni are suitable substitutes for ziti.

Can I use store-bought sauce?

Absolutely. Choose a high-quality marinara sauce to enhance the flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

Baked Ziti is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd. With its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special gathering, this baked ziti recipe is a delicious choice that everyone will enjoy.