Irresistible Baked Ziti Recipe – Comfort Food Delight

Imagine a bubbling, cheesy delight emerging from the oven, its aroma wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Baked ziti, with its layers of hearty pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, is the ultimate comfort food that warms both heart and soul. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors; the tangy tomatoes dance with creamy mozzarella, while herbs add an aromatic touch that takes your taste buds on an unforgettable journey.

Now picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and your friends are teasing you about your culinary skills (or lack thereof). But as you pull out this baked ziti masterpiece, their skepticism quickly turns to awe. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter and delightful memories. You’ll want to serve it at family gatherings or cozy nights in because nothing says “I care” quite like a big ol’ tray of cheesy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Ingredients for Baked Ziti

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ziti Pasta: Use about 1 pound of ziti pasta; it’s the backbone of this dish and holds onto all that delicious sauce.

• Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: Choose 1 pound for a meaty base; feel free to swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.

• Marinara Sauce: About 4 cups will do; opt for homemade or store-bought—just make sure it’s packed with flavor!

• Ricotta Cheese: Use 15 ounces; this creamy layer adds richness and balances the acidity of the sauce.

• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Aim for about 3 cups; who can resist gooey melted cheese on top?

• Parmesan Cheese: A half-cup grated will give your ziti that extra savory kick.

• Fresh Basil or Oregano: You’ll need about a tablespoon of fresh herbs for garnish; they add freshness and color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Baked Ziti

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab your favorite baking dish (at least a 9×13 inch pan works wonders) and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

Step 2: Cook Your Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don’t forget to save some pasta water—it’s liquid gold!

Step 3: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain off any excess fat (unless you’re feeling rebellious). Stir in your marinara sauce and let it simmer for about five minutes—that’s where the magic happens!

Step 4: Mix Ricotta & Seasonings

In another bowl, combine ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese along with salt, pepper, and any herbs you fancy. This mixture will be creamy perfection when layered.

Step 5: Assemble Your Ziti

In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked pasta next, followed by dollops of ricotta mixture. Repeat these layers until everything is used up—top it off generously with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake It Up

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into that preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another five to ten minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—just try not to drool too much!

Serve hot straight from the oven. Transfer generous portions onto plates while basking in compliments—you’ve earned them! Add fresh basil or oregano on top for that extra zing before serving.

Enjoy every cheesy bite of this incredible baked ziti—your friends will be begging for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Cook the pasta until al dente while browning the meat. Prepare your sauce as the pasta cooks, then combine everything and layer with cheese in a baking dish. Finally, bake until bubbly and golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the meat for vegetables or add extra spices like crushed red pepper for heat. Experiment with different cheeses such as ricotta or gouda to give your Baked Ziti a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven until heated through, ensuring the cheese stays melty.

It was my best friend’s birthday when I first made Baked Ziti from scratch. Watching her dive into that cheesy goodness was priceless—she still calls it “the best present ever.”

FAQs

What is Baked Ziti?

Baked Ziti is a delicious Italian-American dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. The dish often includes ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and creamy texture. You can customize baked ziti by adding ingredients like ground meat or vegetables for added flavor. It’s a perfect comfort food that is easy to prepare and great for feeding a crowd.

How long does it take to bake Baked Ziti?

Typically, Baked Ziti requires about 30 to 40 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C). This time allows the cheese to melt and become bubbly while the flavors meld together beautifully. If you prepare it in advance and refrigerate it before baking, you may need to add an extra 10 to 15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Baked Ziti ahead of time! Prepare the dish as instructed but stop before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.

What can I serve with Baked Ziti?

Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with garlic bread and a fresh salad. The garlic bread complements the cheesy pasta perfectly, while a green salad adds freshness and crunch. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal. This combination not only enhances the meal but also creates a delightful dining experience.

Conclusion for Baked Ziti

In summary, Baked Ziti is an easy-to-make dish that combines hearty pasta with rich cheeses and flavorful sauces. Whether you choose to add meat or keep it vegetarian, this comforting recipe is perfect for any occasion. Preparing it ahead of time makes serving simpler during busy weeknights or gatherings. Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish!

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Baked Ziti

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• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, featuring layers of al dente pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a medley of gooey cheeses. This easy-to-make dish takes just minutes to prepare and is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in. Each bite offers a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this Baked Ziti is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil or oregano

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meat; drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce, simmering for 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella, salt, pepper, and herbs.
5. Layer half of the meat sauce in the baking dish, followed by half of the ziti and dollops of ricotta mixture. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda or provolone for unique flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.