Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese into one delicious dish. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Whether you’re feeding a group or just craving a hearty meal, this Baked Ziti will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Imagine digging into a bubbly, cheesy casserole with layers of pasta and sauce that meld together in the oven. This Baked Ziti recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also allows for endless variations. Want to add some veggies? Go for it! Prefer a meatier version? Ground beef or sausage works beautifully.
Deliciously Cheesy Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti brings comfort food to a whole new level with its combination of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and an abundance of gooey cheese. This dish creates a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
You can easily customize this recipe to cater to your preferences. Whether you want to incorporate vegetables for added nutrition or choose a meaty version with ground beef or sausage, the options are plentiful.
Perfect Pasta Preparation
The foundation of any great baked ziti is perfectly cooked pasta. To achieve that delightful al dente texture, boil ziti in salted water, following the package instructions closely. Once cooked, ensure to drain it well and set it aside to cool slightly.
This step is crucial as it prevents the pasta from becoming overly soft during the baking process, preserving the structure and bite that make baked ziti enjoyable.
Sautéing Aromatics for Flavors
A key element in enhancing the flavor profile of baked ziti is the sautéing of aromatics. Begin by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant, setting the stage for the rich marinara sauce that follows.
If you’re going for a heartier dish, consider adding ground meat. Cook it until browned, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the aromatics, which will enrich the entire dish.
Layering in the Goodness
Once your pasta is cooked and your aromatics are sautéed, it’s time to bring everything together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ziti, ricotta cheese, and a generous amount of mozzarella.
Next, mix in the marinara sauce along with herbs like oregano and basil, then season with salt and pepper. This mix of ingredients creates a harmonious blend that forms the essence of baked ziti.
Assembling the Baked Ziti
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with remaining mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven. After the first 25 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to bubble and achieve that golden-brown color that beckons from the oven.
Serving and Presentation
After baking, let the ziti cool for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pair your baked ziti with a slice of garlic bread for a truly satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Deliciously Cheesy Baked Ziti
This Baked Ziti features al dente pasta smothered in a zesty marinara sauce, topped with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The taste is a beautiful balance of savory, tangy, and creamy, creating a satisfying dish that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. If using, add the ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and 2 cups of mozzarella cheese. Pour the sauce mixture over the pasta and stir to combine.
- Assemble the Ziti: Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil and serving hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
