Classic Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked ziti. Just the name conjures up images of cozy family dinners, potlucks overflowing with deliciousness, and the comforting aroma that fills a home with warmth and anticipation. In my own kitchen, this recipe has become a true staple. It’s the dish I turn to when I need to feed a crowd, impress at a gathering, or simply want to bring a smile to my family’s faces on a weeknight. There’s something undeniably magical about the combination of perfectly cooked ziti, a rich and flavorful meat sauce, and layers upon layers of gooey, melted cheese. This isn’t just any baked ziti; this is classic baked ziti, the kind that reminds you of home, of Sunday suppers, and of the simple joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Every time I pull this bubbling, golden-brown casserole from the oven, the reaction is always the same: pure, unadulterated happiness. From the first savory bite to the last cheesy strand, this baked ziti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and I’m thrilled to share this tried-and-true recipe with you. Get ready to experience the comfort and joy of a truly classic dish!

Ingredients

This classic baked ziti recipe is all about simple, high-quality ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary. Let’s break down what you’ll need to create this family favorite:

For the Hearty Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb Ziti Pasta: The star of the show! Ziti’s tubular shape and ridges are perfect for holding onto all that delicious sauce and cheese. You’ll want to use one pound of dried ziti pasta.
• 1 lb Ground Beef (or Ground Sausage): The base of our flavorful meat sauce. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or opt for ground sausage for a richer, spicier flavor. Italian sausage, either sweet or hot, works wonderfully. For a truly decadent sauce, you can even use a combination of both!
• 28 ounces Marinara Sauce (or Store-Bought): A good quality marinara sauce is key. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought brand to save time, or elevate this dish even further by using a homemade marinara sauce. The depth of flavor in a homemade sauce truly makes a difference.
• 2 cups Canned Diced Tomatoes (Don’t Drain): These add a touch of sweetness and acidity to the sauce, as well as a lovely texture. Be sure to use diced tomatoes in juice, and don’t drain them – that liquid is full of flavor!
• 2 tsp Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a consistent garlic flavor throughout the sauce.
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning: This classic blend of herbs adds that quintessential Italian flavor we all know and love.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential for seasoning both the meat sauce and the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy with your salt and pepper!

For the Creamy Ricotta Cheese Mixture:

• 2 cups Ricotta Cheese: The creamy, dreamy heart of this baked ziti. Use whole milk ricotta for the best flavor and texture. If your ricotta seems very watery, you can drain it in a cheesecloth-lined sieve for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
• 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: We’re using mozzarella in the ricotta mixture for added creaminess and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
• 2 tbsp Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty, and savory depth to the ricotta mixture.
• 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Finely Minced): Fresh parsley brightens up the ricotta mixture with a touch of herbaceousness and freshness. Dried parsley can be substituted, but fresh is always preferred.
• 1 tsp Fresh Basil (Finely Minced): Fresh basil adds a sweet, aromatic, and slightly peppery note that complements the Italian flavors beautifully. Again, dried basil can be used in a pinch, but fresh is best.
• 1 Garlic Clove (Grated): Freshly grated garlic adds a pungent and aromatic kick to the ricotta mixture, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• 1 Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping the ricotta mixture hold its shape and adding richness.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Seasoning is crucial even in the ricotta mixture!

For Assembly and Topping:

• 4 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Cheese: Sliced or torn fresh mozzarella adds pockets of creamy, melty goodness throughout the baked ziti.
• 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: This is for the generous, cheesy topping that we all crave!
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese: A final sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a lovely salty, nutty crust and enhances the golden-brown finish.

Instructions

Making this classic baked ziti is surprisingly straightforward, even for beginner cooks. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a dish that will impress everyone:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). This ensures your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent the ziti from sticking and make serving easier.
2. Brown the Ground Beef and Season: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add your ground beef (or sausage). Break it up with a spoon and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s completely browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Once the beef is browned, season it generously with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Don’t be afraid to season liberally – this is where the base flavor of your sauce comes from!
3. Simmer the Meat Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for a richer flavor. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Reserve 2 cups of the sauce in a separate bowl. We’ll use this reserved sauce later to layer in the baked ziti.
4. Cook the Ziti Pasta: While the meat sauce is simmering, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions in a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook the pasta until it is al dente – meaning it’s cooked through but still has a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the baked ziti. Once cooked, drain the pasta well.
5. Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese (for the ricotta mixture), parmesan cheese (for the ricotta mixture), egg, finely minced fresh parsley, finely minced fresh basil, and grated garlic clove. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. Season the ricotta mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Set this creamy mixture aside.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked and drained ziti pasta directly to the pot with the remaining meat sauce (not the reserved 2 cups). Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
7. Layer the Baked Ziti: Now it’s time to assemble your baked ziti! Spread half of the saucy pasta mixture evenly in the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the pasta layer. Place slices or torn pieces of fresh mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
8. Add the Reserved Sauce and Remaining Layers: Pour the reserved 2 cups of meat sauce evenly over the fresh mozzarella. Top with the remaining half of the saucy pasta mixture, spreading it evenly. Dollop the remaining ricotta cheese mixture over the top pasta layer.
9. Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese (for the topping) and parmesan cheese (for the topping) evenly over the final layer of ricotta.
10. Bake Covered and Uncovered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Covering it initially helps the ziti heat through and the cheese melt without browning too quickly. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
11. Broil for Extra Browning (Optional): For an extra golden-brown and bubbly top, you can broil the baked ziti for 1-2 minutes at the end. Watch it carefully to prevent burning!
12. Rest and Garnish: Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness.
13. Serve and Enjoy! Serve your classic baked ziti hot and enjoy the chorus of compliments that are sure to follow!

Nutrition Facts

(Please note that nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving (Estimated): Approximately 550-650 calories

This classic baked ziti provides a satisfying and hearty meal. It is a good source of:

• Protein: From the ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese.
• Calcium: From the generous amounts of cheese.
• Carbohydrates: From the ziti pasta and tomatoes.

While it’s a comforting and delicious dish, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, especially considering the calorie content. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Preparation Time

This recipe is wonderfully manageable in terms of preparation and cooking time. Here’s a breakdown:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • This includes chopping vegetables (parsley, basil, garlic), measuring ingredients, and preparing the ricotta mixture.
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • This includes browning the beef (10 minutes), simmering the sauce (15-30 minutes), cooking the pasta (about 10 minutes), baking (30 minutes), and broiling (1-2 minutes).
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

While it takes a little over an hour from start to finish, much of that time is hands-off simmering and baking, making it a relatively easy dish to prepare, especially for a crowd.

How to Serve Classic Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a complete meal in itself, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious ways to serve your classic baked ziti:

• Classic Garlic Bread: A must-have side for any pasta dish! Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from your plate.
• Fresh Salad: A light and refreshing salad provides a wonderful contrast to the richness of the baked ziti. Consider a simple Caesar salad, a mixed green salad with a vinaigrette, or an Italian chopped salad.
• Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Add some healthy greens to your meal with steamed broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions.
• Caprese Salad: The simple combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze is a classic Italian pairing that works beautifully with baked ziti.
• Meatballs or Sausage (on the side): For an even heartier meal, you can serve baked ziti alongside Italian meatballs or grilled Italian sausage.
• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of baked ziti. For white wine lovers, a Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can also be a refreshing choice.
• For a Crowd: Baked ziti is ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, and parties. It travels well and can be made ahead of time. Serve it buffet-style alongside salads, bread, and desserts for a complete and satisfying meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

Want to take your baked ziti from good to absolutely amazing? Here are five essential tips to ensure success every time:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember to cook your ziti pasta only until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven as it bakes, and overcooked pasta will become mushy and lose its texture. Test a piece of pasta a minute or two before the package directions suggest – it should be firm to the bite.
2. Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: The marinara sauce is a key component of baked ziti. Using a good quality store-bought sauce or, even better, making your own homemade marinara sauce will significantly elevate the flavor of your dish. Look for sauces made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
3. Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Cheese is what makes baked ziti so irresistible! Use generous amounts of mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheese for a truly cheesy and decadent result. Fresh mozzarella adds pockets of creamy goodness, while shredded mozzarella provides that classic melty topping.
4. Season Every Layer: Don’t just season the meat sauce. Make sure to season the ricotta mixture and even taste and adjust the seasoning of the pasta and sauce combination before layering. Seasoning at each stage ensures that every bite is flavorful and balanced.
5. Make it Ahead for Easy Entertaining: Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble it completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. This makes it perfect for potlucks and busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Classic Baked Ziti

Got questions about making the best baked ziti? Here are answers to some common queries:

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?

A: Yes, absolutely! While ziti is classic, you can certainly substitute other pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, or even mostaccioli would all work well as they are also tubular and have ridges to hold sauce. Avoid using very small pasta shapes or long, thin pasta like spaghetti, as they won’t hold up as well in a baked dish.

Q2: Can I make this baked ziti vegetarian?

A: Definitely! To make vegetarian baked ziti, simply omit the ground beef or sausage. You can enhance the flavor and heartiness by adding vegetables to the sauce. Sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant would all be delicious additions. You could also use a plant-based ground meat substitute if you want to maintain a meaty texture.

Q3: Can I use pre-made ricotta cheese mixture to save time?

A: While you could potentially find pre-made ricotta mixtures in some specialty stores, it’s highly recommended to make your own. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, and you have full control over the ingredients and flavors. Freshly made ricotta mixture will always taste superior to pre-made versions.

Q4: How long can I store leftover baked ziti, and how do I reheat it?

A: Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can bake it in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until heated through (about 20-30 minutes). You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, although the texture might be slightly softer. For oven reheating, adding a splash of water or broth to the bottom of the dish can help prevent it from drying out.

Q5: Can I freeze baked ziti?

A: Yes, baked ziti freezes beautifully! Assemble the ziti in a freezer-safe dish, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Bake covered with foil at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. You may need to add extra baking time when cooking from frozen. You can also bake it directly from frozen, but it will take significantly longer to cook through.

This classic baked ziti recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the taste of comfort, the warmth of home, and the joy of sharing good food with those you love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a baked ziti masterpiece that will become a cherished favorite for years to come!

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