Baked ziti is a comforting and hearty Italian-American dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe features layers of ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses that melt beautifully in the oven. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a cozy family meal, this baked ziti recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
– 24 ounces marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the dish) contains approximately:
– Calories: 450
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 3g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce and oregano; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese.
- Transfer half of the mixture to a baking dish; sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Add the remaining mixture, top with more mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ziti pasta with penne or rigatoni for a different texture. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat and add spinach or zucchini for extra veggies.
Serving and Pairings
Baked ziti pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or a glass of red wine. It makes a delightful main course for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Baked ziti freezes well for up to 3 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta before baking can make it mushy.
- Not allowing enough time for the dish to set after baking can result in a watery texture.
- Forgetting to season the meat sauce can lead to bland flavor.
- Using low-quality cheese can affect the dish’s overall texture and taste.
- Skipping the step of mixing the ricotta with the pasta can cause uneven distribution.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or provolone.
- Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add a bit more baking time if cooking from cold.
Is baked ziti gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking sauce labels for gluten content.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a personalized flavor.
What can I add to baked ziti for more flavor?
Consider adding sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or spices like crushed red pepper for heat.
How do I know when baked ziti is done?
It’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is a versatile and delicious dish that brings comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Try this recipe, and you’ll have a new favorite in no time!
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce and oregano; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese.
- Transfer half of the mixture to a baking dish; sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Add the remaining mixture, top with more mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
