If you’re on the hunt for a dish that brings the family together around the dinner table, look no further than Cheesy Baked Ziti! This comforting pasta bake layers rich, perfectly-cooked ziti with a flavorful meat sauce and an impressive amount of melted cheese. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delightful flavors and heartwarming aromas. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it the perfect choice for a cozy weeknight dinner, or even a potluck where you want to impress your friends without breaking a sweat.
What makes Cheesy Baked Ziti so appealing is its capability to cater to various taste preferences. It’s family-friendly, hearty, and satisfying—all essential qualities for any main course. Additionally, this dish is freezer-friendly, allowing you to prep in advance and save time on busy nights. Just imagine the smiles at your table when you serve bubbling, cheesy goodness that everyone adores. This dish is essentially a simplified version of lasagna, minus the extra steps, yet equally delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Baked Ziti
- Effortless Preparation: With a straightforward list of ingredients and simple cooking steps, you’ll find this dish easy to whip up.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the layered flavors of pasta, ground meat, and melty cheese.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: This dish freezes beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
- Customizable: Modify the ingredients to cater to dietary preferences—more veggies, different meats, or even a vegetarian option.
- Impressive Presentation: Its cheesy, golden top creates a stunning visual that’s perfect for gatherings.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your Cheesy Baked Ziti, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Begin by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized, removing any items you won’t need during the cooking process. You’ll require the following tools for optimal success:
- A large pot to boil pasta.
- A large skillet or frying pan for the meat sauce.
- A 9×13-inch baking dish for assembling the ziti.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement.
- A wooden spoon for mixing and sautéing ingredients.
Now that you’re prepped, let’s get started on this delicious dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ziti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and drizzle a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together. The goal is to ensure your ziti is cooked just enough, as it will continue to cook further in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which usually takes 3 to 5 minutes. Follow this by adding the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. Then, incorporate the ground beef (or sausage) into the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and fully cooked, ensuring you drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Once the meat is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add the Italian seasoning, basil, and if you enjoy a hint of heat, the red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish
While your sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step is crucial as it ensures easy removal of the baked ziti once it’s cooked.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with most of the meat sauce you’ve just prepared. If desired, mix in the ricotta cheese at this stage for added creaminess. Set aside a bit of the sauce to spread on the bottom of your baking dish.
Step 6: Layering for Success
Begin assembling your baked ziti by first spreading a thin layer of reserved meat sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, layer half of the pasta mixture on top. Sprinkle it with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with the remaining pasta and finish with the rest of the cheeses on top. This layering technique will create a beautiful cheesy crust.
Step 7: Bake and Enjoy
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy each comforting bite.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish, or keep it vegetarian by loading up with extra vegetables.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to incorporate more nutrients and flavor.
- Spices: Spice it up with additional spices, such as oregano, thyme, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Cooking Notes
- It’s essential not to overcook your pasta—stop cooking when it’s slightly firm as it will continue to cook while baking.
- For the best cheesy texture, opt for freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses instead of pre-packaged versions.
- To avoid dryness, always layer the bottom of the baking dish with sauce to keep everything moist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad to balance the richness of the ziti.
- Serve with garlic bread or toasted Italian bread slices for an authentic touch.
Tips
- Make sure to taste your sauce before layering it into the dish. Adjust seasoning as necessary for the best flavor.
- Consider making this dish a day ahead, allowing the flavors to intensify—just reheat it when ready to serve!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
What kind of pasta should I use for baked ziti?
While traditional ziti is great, you can also use penne or rigatoni if you prefer a different shape.
Can I make Cheesy Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I customize the cheese used?
Yes! Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Ziti is indeed the epitome of comfort food, delivering a warm and hearty meal that invites everyone to dig in. Not only does it include a delightful amalgamation of flavors, but it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to put your personal spin on it easily. Whether it’s a casual family night or a special gathering, this dish is bound to leave a lasting impression. Don’t hesitate to share your own variations or tips in the comments section! We would love to hear how you make this dish your own. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the blissful simplicity and satisfaction of good home-cooked food!
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Cheesy Baked Ziti
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Baked Ziti is a comforting dish that layers pasta, meat sauce, and melted cheese for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the ziti and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and drizzle a bit of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. Incorporate the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Lower the heat and stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Add Italian seasoning, basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine the cooked ziti with most of the meat sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix in ricotta cheese if desired, reserving some sauce for the bottom of the baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of reserved meat sauce in the greased dish. Layer half of the pasta mixture, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat with remaining pasta and top with more cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until golden. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
For the best texture, use freshly shredded cheeses and avoid overcooking the pasta.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Protein: 28 g