Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Baked Ziti is a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that’s quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With its rich marinara sauce, tender ziti pasta, and gooey melted cheese, this dish offers the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep, Baked Ziti is a go-to comfort food.

Ingredients

• (Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ziti pasta
• Olive oil
• Ground beef or Italian sausage
• Onion
• Garlic
• Marinara sauce
• Ricotta cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) and cook until browned. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until smooth and well combined.
6. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then top with half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat with the remaining pasta, sauce, and ricotta mixture.
7. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
• Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, place in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze Baked Ziti?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, rigatoni, or another short pasta can be used instead of ziti.

Do I have to use ricotta cheese?
Ricotta adds a creamy texture, but you can substitute with cottage cheese or omit it for a simpler version.

Conclusion

Easy Baked Ziti is a hearty and delicious dish that delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal for friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. With its rich cheese layers and savory sauce, it’s a comfort food classic everyone will love.

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