What is comfort food? What is the ultimate comfort food? Baked Ziti. What is lasagna? How is it like? Is it the kind of meal that just makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, like getting a hug from your mom.? If your grandma was an Italian chef, what would you do? My family practically inhales this stuff. Seriously, I swear it disappears in minutes!What is the best baked zitiis a winner, and trust me, I’ve tried many. The secret? Good quality ingredients and not being afraid to load it up with cheese. I used to be intimidated by any baked pasta, but after making this one, I was so happy. I can’t do it many times. I have done it! It’s become a tradition for our Sunday family dinners, and I’m so excited to share this with you.
What is Baked Ziti?
What exactly is *is*?baked zitiWhat is a pasta casserole? It’s essentially cooked ziti pasta tossed in a rich tomato sauce, usually with some kind of meat. Is it possible to make it vegetarian? ), layered with lots of cheese (we’re talking ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan… the works! ), and then baked until bubbly and golden brown. The name “ziti” refers to the type of pasta used – long, tube-shaped noodles that are perfect for cooking. What are some of the best sauces and cheeses? What is the perfect comfort food trifecta? What do you bake together with pasta, sauce, and cheese? Is it fancy, but it’s definitely satisfying?
Why do I love this recipe?
What is the reason behind this particular article?What is the best baked zitiIs there a flavor to this game changer? What are you talking about? A rich, savory tomato sauce infused with garlic and herbs, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy cheesecake. What are some of the best fillings that melt in your mouth? Is it a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more? What I love about this is how easy it is to make. Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, you can pull this off. Is it a lifesaver on busy weeknights, especially when you’re craving something comforting? The ingredients are also super budget-friendly, which is always a plus. What is the best part about having a pantry full of these things?baked zitiIs incredibly versatile. Can you customize it with different meats, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your taste? What are some good ways to add spice? What do you do with mozzarella?What is the best baked zitiWhat is your favorite ricotta Cheese Sandwich? Trust me, don’t skip it, that’s the secret to the best.baked ziti!
How do I make Baked Ziti?
Quick Overview
Making this What is the best baked zitiIs it easier than you think? What is the best way to cook pasta, make the Meat Sauce (or use your favorite jarred sauce to save money) and serve it to someone who is hungry. Time – I won’t judge! ), mix up the ricotta cheese filling, and then layer everything in a baking dish. Top it all with mozzarella cheese, bake until bubbly and golden, and boom! Dinner is served. The beauty of this method is that it is super forgiving. Don’t worry about being perfect – just have fun! I promise you, this will become a go-to recipe in your house!
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound Ground Beef (or Italian sausage, or a mix)!
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste I always use San Marzano tomatoes because they’re just so flavorful!
For Pasta & Cheese: What is the best recipe for this
* 1 pound ziti pasta
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
What is the best way to use shredded mozzarella cheese?
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually use butter, but cooking spray works too! Make sure you get all the corners, so the pasta doesn’t stick. This step is crucial!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
How do I cook ziti pasta according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 2 minutes? You want it to be al dente, not mushy, because it will continue to cook in the oven. I always give pasta a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Add Ground Beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Sauce Ingredients
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the juices to evaporate. How do flavors meld? I always taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. Sometimes I add a pinch of sugar if it’s too acidic.
Step 5: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese and salt. Set aside. What is the creamy, cheesy layer?baked ziti so delicious!
Step 6: Assemble the Ziti
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the Meat Sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. How do you pour half of the pasta mixture into a baking dish? Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Top with the remaining pasta mixture. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
Step 7: Bake
How long does it take for cheese to melt in the preheated oven? I always check the cheese after 20 minutes to make sure it isn’t burning.
Step 8: Rest
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the pasta to set up a bit and makes it easier to cut. Plus, it gives you time to prepare a side salad or Garlic Bread!
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Carefully slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. What are some comfort food recipes?
What to Serve It With
This baked ziti recipe is a meal in itself, but it’s even better when paired with the right sides. For a classic Italian feast, serve it with a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing and some crusty Garlic Bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. I also love serving it with roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, for a bit of extra nutrition. It’s great as a side to any meal. If you want to go all out, you could even add a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. My family loves it when I make some Italian bread sticks to go along with it!
For a Light Dinner: A simple green salad and some crusty Italian bread.
For a Heartier Meal: Roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
For a Special Occasion: Caprese salad and garlic bread.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Ziti
Alright, let me share some of my top tips for making the *perfect* baked ziti recipe. First, don’t overcook the pasta! It should be al dente because it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy, and nobody wants mushy baked ziti. Second, don’t skimp on the cheese! Use good quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. I like to buy a block of mozzarella and shred it myself because it melts better than the pre-shredded stuff. Third, don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients. Try adding different meats, vegetables, or cheeses to customize the recipe to your liking. If you’re using jarred sauce, make sure to choose a good quality one. I like to add a little bit of fresh garlic and herbs to jarred sauce to give it a more homemade taste. And finally, let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the pasta to set up a bit and makes it easier to cut. Trust me, these tips will take your baked ziti game to the next level! I’ve even tested this with different cheeses: a smoked gouda on top adds an amazing twist!
Perfect Pasta: Always cook the pasta al dente.
Quality Cheese: Use good quality mozzarella and Parmesan.
Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Meat Variations: Try using Italian sausage or ground turkey instead of beef.
Veggie Boost: Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This baked ziti recipe is great for making ahead of time or for leftovers! To store leftovers, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baked ziti with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it might not be as crispy. For a single serving, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. One thing to note: sometimes the mozzarella can get a little watery after being stored, but don’t worry, it will still taste delicious!
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to baked ziti recipe that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does. It’s the perfect dish for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. If you’re looking for more comforting pasta recipes, be sure to check out my lasagna and spaghetti carbonara recipes. And if you try this baked ziti, be sure to let me know how it turns out in the comments below! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and see your creations. Happy baking (or should I say, happy *ziti-ing*!)!
Baked Ziti Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 28 ounces can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- In a separate bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti, half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the tomato sauce.
- Repeat layers.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden brown.
