Are you ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy, comforting goodness? This baked ziti recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings together al dente pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses for an irresistible dish. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this baked ziti will leave everyone asking for seconds. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to making this delicious meal from scratch!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
– 4 cups marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): Calories: 450, Protein: 20g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 3g. This nutritional value is based on a single serving, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
6. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
7. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well until combined.
8. Transfer half of the mixture to a greased baking dish. Layer with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ziti pasta with penne or rigatoni. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms or lentils instead of meat. Low-fat cheese options are available for a lighter version, and gluten-free pasta can be used for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Serving and Pairings
Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of red wine or sparkling water.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness; cook it al dente.
- Not letting the dish rest after baking can make it fall apart.
- Using low-quality cheese may affect the flavor.
- Not seasoning the meat sauce properly can lead to blandness.
- Skipping the foil can cause the top to burn before the inside is cooked.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
- Try incorporating veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
- Make it ahead of time and bake just before serving for convenience.
FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked ziti up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a great alternative. You can also blend cream cheese with a bit of milk for a similar texture.
How long should I bake the ziti?
Bake the ziti covered for 20 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Is baked ziti healthy?
Baked ziti can be part of a balanced diet, especially if you use whole grain pasta and load it with vegetables. Portion control is key to enjoying it healthily.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. With its cheesy layers and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every bite!
Baked Ziti
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well until combined.
- Transfer half of the mixture to a greased baking dish. Layer with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
