Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Are you searching for a delicious and straightforward dinner idea? Look no further! This Easy Baked Ziti Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With its hearty layers of pasta, meat, and cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable, so you can adapt it to your family’s preferences with ease.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg

Why Make Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

This Easy Baked Ziti Recipe is not only satisfying but also a healthier alternative to takeout. Packed with protein from the meat and cheese, and enriched with flavor from the marinara sauce and herbs, it makes for a well-rounded meal. The combination of gooey cheese and tender pasta creates a comforting dish that can easily be modified with various ingredients, making it a family favorite that you’ll return to time and time again.

How to Make Easy Baked Ziti Recipe Step by Step

Ingredients

• 1 pound (about 450g) ziti pasta
• 1 pound (about 450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jars (24-26 ounces each) marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 15 ounces (about 425g) ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 cups (about 340g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup (about 100g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions, but slightly undercook it so it maintains some firmness, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage (removing casings if using sausage) until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, infusing the meat mixture with flavor. Season the meat mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors together. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten egg. The egg will help bind the cheese mixture, giving structure to the layers. In the greased baking dish, start with half of the cooked ziti. Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta, then half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top. Repeat this layering with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce. Top again with the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses to create a cheesy crust. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. This keeps the moisture in and allows flavors to meld. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired to add a fresh herbal note.

How to Serve Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Pair this delicious Easy Baked Ziti Recipe with a fresh side salad for a complete meal. A simple Caesar or mixed greens salad will add a delightful crunch. For an extra touch, you can serve it with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.

How to Store Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

If you have leftovers, you can easily store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked ziti for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Cooking Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

• Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage for a rich flavor.
• Try adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
• Feel free to substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• Let the baked ziti sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to firm up.

Delicious Variations of Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

For a spicy twist, consider adding diced jalapeños or using spicy sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap out the meat for roasted vegetables or cooked lentils. For a flavorful herbed variation, you can mix in fresh herbs like sautéed spinach or zucchini for a refreshing taste.

Conclusion

We invite you to try this Easy Baked Ziti Recipe for a hearty and comforting meal that is sure to delight your family. Its rich flavors and simplicity make it the perfect dinner solution for those busy days or cozy nights in. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that each bite brings!

Easy Baked Ziti

A delicious and straightforward baked ziti recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, featuring hearty layers of pasta, meat, and cheese.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Meat

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage or a combination
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Seasoning

• 2 jars marinara sauce (24-26 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cheese Mixture

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions, but undercook it slightly to maintain firmness. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sauté until the onion is softened and translucent.
5. Season the meat mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper, then pour in the marinara sauce. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the beaten egg.

Layering

1. In the greased baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, then half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half of the meat sauce.
2. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
3. Top with remaining shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

Baking

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
3. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Consider adding vegetables or using a spicy sausage to customize.