Baked Ziti Recipe
Baked Ziti Recipe is a comforting, classic dish loved by families everywhere. It’s an easy and delicious meal that brings people together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With customizable ingredients, you can tailor this dish to fit your tastes while keeping it satisfying and flavorful.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 400
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Baked Ziti Recipe
Making Baked Ziti Recipe is a wonderful choice for many reasons. It’s an excellent way to enjoy a hearty meal packed with protein and carbohydrates, fueling you for the day ahead. With a combination of rich flavors from the beef, tangy sauces, and creamy cheeses, every bite becomes a delightful experience. Additionally, this recipe is extremely versatile, allowing you to mix in different vegetables or proteins according to your family’s preferences.
How to Make Baked Ziti Recipe Step by Step
Ingredients
16 ounces ziti,
½ pound ground beef,
2 cloves garlic, minced,
1 large onion, chopped,
24 ounces spaghetti sauce,
8 ounces tomato sauce,
1 teaspoon oregano,
15 ounces ricotta cheese,
½ cup parmesan cheese,
1½ cups mozzarella cheese, divided (1 cup + ½ cup)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) to prepare for baking the ziti. Boil the ziti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and oregano to the beef mixture. Heat until the sauce begins to boil, then remove from heat. Mix 1 cup of the beef and sauce mixture with the cooked ziti thoroughly. Spoon half of the ziti mixture into a large baking dish. Spread ricotta cheese evenly on top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of the remaining sauce. Add the remaining half of the ziti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the sauce. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to help the dish stay moist and creamy. Remove the foil and sprinkle parmesan cheese and the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese topping.
How to Serve Baked Ziti Recipe
Baked Ziti Recipe is fabulous on its own, but you can enhance your meal with a side salad or some garlic bread to balance the flavors. A light Caesar salad pairs well, adding freshness and crunch. For a heartier option, consider a side of roasted vegetables to complement the cheesy pasta beautifully.
How to Store Baked Ziti Recipe
To store Baked Ziti Recipe, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked ziti in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or heat the entire dish in the oven until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Cooking Baked Ziti Recipe
- For extra flavor, consider browning Italian sausage with the ground beef.
- Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to boost the nutrition.
- For a creamier dish, mix in a little shredded mozzarella into the ziti before baking.
- Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use a mix of cheeses for added depth, such as provolone or fontina.
Delicious Variations of Baked Ziti Recipe
- Spicy Baked Ziti: Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to kick up the heat.
- Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Replace the meat with roasted vegetables and a blend of your favorite sauces for a veggie delight.
- Herbed Baked Ziti: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh taste.
Conclusion
Give this Baked Ziti Recipe a try! It’s a dish bursting with flavor and comfort that’s easy to whip up and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how simple and versatile it is, making it a go-to favorite in your household. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Boil the ziti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, and oregano to the beef mixture. Heat until the sauce begins to boil, then remove from heat.
- Mix 1 cup of the beef and sauce mixture with the cooked ziti thoroughly.
- Spoon half of the ziti mixture into a large baking dish.
- Spread ricotta cheese evenly on top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of the remaining sauce.
- Add the remaining half of the ziti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle parmesan cheese and the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
