Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of baked ziti, a classic Italian-American dish that epitomizes comfort food. With layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The best part? It’s simple to make and even easier to enjoy. Get ready to dive into a dish that will become a staple in your kitchen!
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 Italian seasoning
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/8 of the dish) contains approximately 450 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 25g fat, and 800mg sodium. Adjust portions as needed.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
7. Pour in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
8. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
9. Spread half of the meat sauce in a baking dish, then layer with the ziti mixture.
10. Top with remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan and remaining mozzarella.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
13. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or use a meatless option like mushrooms or lentils. Ricotta can be replaced with cottage cheese for a lighter version, and gluten-free pasta works well for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
Baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine or sparkling water can complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in the oven until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente.
– Avoid using too much sauce, which can make the dish soggy.
– Ensure even layering to prevent uneven cooking.
– Use fresh ingredients for better flavor.
– Don’t skip the resting time after baking to let flavors meld.
– Watch the baking time to prevent burning.
– Experiment with seasonings for a personalized touch.
Helpful Tips
– Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
– For a spicier kick, incorporate red pepper flakes.
– Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor.
– Cover with foil for the first part of baking to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare baked ziti a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is baked ziti vegetarian?
Baked ziti can be vegetarian if you omit the meat and use vegetable-based sauce. Ricotta and mozzarella are typically vegetarian-friendly.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. Just ensure it’s properly stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly.
What can I serve with baked ziti?
Baked ziti goes well with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
How do I reheat leftover baked ziti?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Conclusion
Baked ziti is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. With its rich layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Baked Ziti Recipe
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 Italian seasoning
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the ground beef or sausage; cook until browned.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Spread half of the meat sauce in a baking dish, then layer with the ziti mixture.
- Top with remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan and remaining mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
