There’s something magical about baked ziti. Picture this: a bubbling, cheesy casserole fresh out of the oven, with steam rising as it hits the table. The aroma of garlic and herbs dances through the air, instantly making your mouth water. Each forkful is a warm embrace, with tender pasta enveloped in rich tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings that spontaneously turn into epic feasts.
Now, let me take you back to a chilly winter evening when I first discovered my love for this dish. I was invited to a friend’s family dinner, and the moment I laid eyes on that glorious baked ziti, I knew I was in for a treat. As we all gathered around the table, laughter mingled with the savory scent wafting from the kitchen. That night, I learned that baked ziti isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful baked ziti recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The explosion of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- Visually stunning with layers of cheese and sauce, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies for a personal touch
I’ll never forget the time my cousin tried to impress everyone by making baked ziti from scratch but ended up creating what looked like a science experiment gone wrong. We all laughed so hard we nearly cried as we watched him try to salvage his dish!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Ziti Pasta: Use ziti or penne—these shapes hold the sauce beautifully and offer delightful bites.
-
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it adds richness and texture.
-
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts perfectly; aim for about two cups for optimal cheesiness.
-
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought sauce works wonders; look for one with minimal ingredients.
-
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds depth; don’t skip this step unless you’re feeling particularly rebellious.
-
Fresh Basil: Adds freshness; toss in some chopped basil for flavor right before serving.
-
Ground Meat (optional): If you like protein, use ground beef or turkey; it makes the dish heartier.
-
Garlic and Onion: Sautéing these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and enhances flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures everything bakes evenly when it’s time to pop it in.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic and chopped onions until they become translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Add Ground Meat (Optional): If you’re using ground meat, throw it in now! Cook until browned before draining excess fat. This adds great flavor to your sauce.
Mix Sauce and Pasta: In a bowl, combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce. Stir in ricotta cheese until well incorporated—get ready for some serious cheesy goodness.
Create Layered Magic: In a baking dish, spread half of your pasta mixture, then sprinkle half of the mozzarella on top. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheese layers. Don’t be shy here; more cheese equals more happiness!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—this is where dreams come true!
This baked ziti recipe isn’t just easy—it’s an adventure! You’re not just creating a meal; you’re crafting memories that will last long after the last forkful is devoured. Enjoy every moment as you savor this delightful dish!
You Must Know
- Baked ziti is a comforting dish that can easily become a family favorite
- The rich, cheesy goodness combined with the zesty tomato sauce creates layers of flavor that make every bite unforgettable
- Plus, it’s an excellent option for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta until al dente, then layer it with sauce and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Bake until bubbly for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out mozzarella for provolone or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Personalize it to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve cheesy perfection, let your baked ziti rest before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully
- Avoid overcooking your pasta; it should remain firm since it will continue cooking in the oven
- Finally, use high-quality cheese for that irresistible stretch and flavor
When my friend first tasted my baked ziti, he declared it “life-changing.” Now, it’s our go-to dish for gatherings and celebrations, always bringing smiles around the table.
FAQ
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
What type of pasta works best for baked ziti?
Ziti is traditional, but any tubular pasta like penne works just as well.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Freeze it before baking for a quick meal later on.
Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food that’s perfect for gatherings and cozy nights in. This hearty dish features layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella that meld together in the oven to create a bubbling masterpiece. Whether you’re meal prepping or entertaining friends, this baked ziti recipe promises to impress and satisfy every palate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté garlic and onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- If using ground meat, add it now and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix cooked ziti with marinara sauce and ricotta cheese until well combined.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with remaining pasta and cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
