The Ultimate Baked Ziti Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic
Baked ziti is a beloved dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the comforting flavors of marinara sauce and cheese. This Italian-American favorite is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or any occasion where delicious food is a must. Follow this unique recipe to create your own mouthwatering baked ziti that will impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients You'll Need
To prepare this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:
- Pasta: 1 pound of ziti or penne pasta
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing
- Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for added flavor
- Ground Meat: 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
- Marinara Sauce: 1 jar (24 ounces) of your favorite sauce
- Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces for a creamy texture
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups shredded, for that gooey topping
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated for extra flavor
- Herbs: 1 tablespoon dried oregano and 1 tablespoon fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it lightly.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti and cook until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent. If you choose to include meat, add the ground beef or sausage at this point. Cook until browned, then stir in the minced garlic for another minute.
- Combine Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat and vegetables. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the meat sauce and mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Layer the Dish: Start by placing half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Add the rest of the pasta mixture, then finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the dish cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a day before baking, making it an ideal option for meal prep.
- Leftovers: Baked ziti reheats wonderfully, so don’t hesitate to make extra!
