Baked ziti is a go-to dish when you want a hearty, comforting, and crowd-pleasing meal. With layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. This easy-to-make dish can be customized with various ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Baked Ziti
For this flavorful and filling Baked Ziti recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef (optional for a meaty version)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce or Homemade Tomato Sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh Basil Leaves for garnish
How to Make Baked Ziti
Follow these steps to create a delicious Baked Ziti:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. If using meat, add the Italian sausage or ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the Ricotta Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until well blended.
- Layer the Ziti:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake:
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh Basil Leaves and serve with Garlic Bread or a side salad.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This Baked Ziti recipe can be adapted in many ways:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie-packed option.
- Cheese Lovers: Increase the amount of mozzarella or add other cheeses like provolone or gouda for an extra cheesy dish.
- Add Spice: For a spicier version, use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Pair your Baked Ziti with Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Shrimp or a fresh Quinoa Salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love Baked Ziti
This Baked Ziti recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and can feed a crowd, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good—if not better—the next day. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a personalized dish that everyone will enjoy.
For more comforting pasta dishes, try our Classic Lasagna or Spaghetti Carbonara for another family-friendly meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the ziti and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, bake it as directed, adding an additional 10 minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire dish at 350°F until heated through.
3. Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! You can freeze baked ziti before or after baking. If freezing before, assemble the dish and freeze it unbaked. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. For already-baked ziti, freeze in portions and reheat when ready to eat.
4. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne, rigatoni, or any other tubular pasta.