When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, cheesy dish fresh out of the oven. Baked ziti checks all the boxes—it’s hearty, satisfying, and easy to prepare. This classic Italian-American dish is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re feeding a crowd. Layers of zesty marinara, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender pasta come together in a bubbling masterpiece that’s sure to win everyone's heart. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, baked ziti is foolproof. Let's get started!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for this rich and flavorful dish:
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 pound ziti (or penne if you can't find ziti)
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional, for a meatier version)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Layers:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until it's al dente (soft but slightly firm to the bite). This usually takes about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain the pasta and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sauce
If you’re adding meat, heat a large skillet over medium heat, then brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to marry. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Mix the Ricotta Layer
While the sauce simmers, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, 1 cup of mozzarella, parsley, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. This step adds a rich, velvety texture to the dish.
4. Assemble the Baked Ziti
Now, the fun part! Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Add half of the cooked ziti, then spoon half of the ricotta mixture on top. Spread it evenly with a spatula, then layer with half of the remaining sauce and sprinkle 1/2 cup of mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, sauce, and another 1/2 cup of mozzarella. End with the Parmesan and the last 1/2 cup of mozzarella as the final topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese (you can spray the foil with nonstick spray to prevent sticking). Bake the ziti for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. If you like crispier edges, broil it for an extra 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Rest and Serve
Once it's out of the oven, let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Customization
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add sautéed veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce for a plant-based twist.
- Cheese Lovers: Swap out some or all the mozzarella for provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses for even more gooey goodness.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature or add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing: Baked ziti freezes beautifully. Simply bake, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 375°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Serve It Up!
Baked ziti is a standout on its own, but don’t forget about the sides. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite crusty bread to round out the meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon works beautifully.
Invite your family or friends over, serve up this baked ziti, and prepare for rave reviews. This dish isn’t just a meal—it’s a hug on a plate. Enjoy!
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