Baked Ziti Recipe is a classic Italian-American dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week ahead. This hearty and comforting pasta bake is made with ziti noodles, tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella. The key to a delicious baked ziti is layering the ingredients just right to ensure each bite is flavorful and satisfying. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering dish that is easy to make and impossible to resist.
What is Baked Ziti?
Baked ziti is a popular Italian-American dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella. The ziti pasta is cooked until al dente, then mixed with the sauce and cheese before being baked in the oven until bubbly and golden brown. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy dinner at home.
Video of Baked Ziti
| – Prep Time | 20 minutes of hands-on prep |
| – Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| – Total Time | 1 hour and 5 minutes |
| – Servings | 6-8 servings |
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that has stood the test of time. Its origins can be traced back to Southern Italy, where it was originally made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include variations such as adding meat, vegetables, or different types of cheese.
Despite its simple ingredients, baked ziti has remained a popular comfort food choice for many. Its rich and hearty flavors, coupled with its gooey, cheesy goodness, make it a beloved dish for families and gatherings alike. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, baked ziti always manages to satisfy cravings and bring people together.
If you’re looking to recreate this timeless favorite in your own kitchen, be sure to check out our delicious Baked Ziti Recipe for a foolproof and delicious version of this classic dish.
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Baked Ziti Ingredients
Our Baked Ziti Recipe incorporates a variety of fresh ingredients to create a delicious and hearty meal. From fragrant garlic and onions to vibrant basil and oregano, each component adds depth and flavor to this classic dish. The star of the show, ziti pasta, provides a satisfying base for the rich tomato sauce and creamy cheeses. With a combination of high-quality ingredients, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.
- 1 pound of ziti pasta: Short, tubular pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef: Ground meat from beef
- 1 onion, diced: A vegetable from the Allium family
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Small, pungent bulbs
- 1 can of tomato sauce: A thick, smooth liquid made from tomatoes
- 1 can of diced tomatoes: Tomatoes cut into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano: Herb with a robust flavor
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil: Herb with a sweet, peppery flavor
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese: Soft, mild cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Hard, salty cheese
How to Make Baked Ziti
To prepare a delicious Baked Ziti Recipe, start by cooking the ziti pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, brown ground beef and onion, then add marinara sauce and simmer. Layer the cooked pasta, sauce, and shredded mozzarella in a baking dish, repeating the layers. Top with more cheese and bake until bubbly and golden. Let it rest before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook 1 pound of ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until it is al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in 1 jar of marinara sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine. Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta in the baking dish, then top with the remaining pasta mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade baked ziti!
Tips for Making Baked Ziti
When it comes to making a delicious Baked Ziti recipe, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to cook your ziti pasta al dente before mixing it with your favorite marinara sauce. Additionally, layering the pasta with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture and plenty of shredded mozzarella will ensure a gooey, cheesy result. Don’t forget to cover the dish with foil while baking to prevent the top from burning. Lastly, let the ziti rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully meld together. With these tips in mind, you’ll have a perfect Baked Ziti every time!
- Use a high-quality tomato sauce with a rich flavor to enhance the overall taste of the baked ziti.
- Don’t overcook the pasta before baking it, as it will continue to cook in the oven and can become mushy.
- Layer the ingredients in the baking dish, starting with a thin layer of sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.
- Mix ricotta cheese with beaten egg and Parmesan cheese for a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Add a variety of cheeses, such as mozzarella, fontina, and provolone, to create a rich and gooey texture.
- Don’t forget to season each layer with salt, pepper, and herbs like basil and oregano for added depth of flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil during the first half of baking to prevent the cheese from burning, then remove the foil for the remaining time to brown the top.
- Let the baked ziti sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Directions for Making Baked Ziti
To make a delicious Baked Ziti dish, start by preheating your oven to 375 F. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions and drain. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage until browned. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan. Layer the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and cheese mixture in a baking dish. Top with more cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Serve hot and enjoy!
- Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 1 pound of ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 jar of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with another cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked ziti!
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Nutrition Facts of Baked Ziti
The Baked Ziti Recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines ziti pasta with a rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella. Each serving provides a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, protein, and calcium. With only 350 calories per serving, this recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional baked ziti dishes.
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 18g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
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Conclusion on Baked Ziti Recipe
In conclusion, this Baked Ziti recipe is a fantastic choice for a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please the whole family. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
For serving ideas, consider adding a side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors of the ziti. You can also customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses to make it your own.
Not only is this dish tasty and versatile, but it also offers several benefits. The combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce provides a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for any time of year. Plus, leftovers can be easily reheated for a quick and convenient meal the next day. Give this Baked Ziti recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite.