If you have ever longed for a comforting, hearty pasta dish that brings family and friends together, this Classic Baked Ziti Recipe is your new best friend. Featuring tender pasta envelopes soaked in rich, flavorful meat sauce layered with creamy ricotta and a gooey blanket of melted mozzarella, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s simple enough to make any weeknight special yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings. Once you try this Classic Baked Ziti Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a timeless Italian-American favorite that never fails to satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Baked Ziti Recipe is surprisingly straightforward with ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the meaty sauce to the cheesy filling, every element complements the others perfectly.
- Ziti or penne pasta: Sturdy pasta shapes that hold up beautifully when baked and catch every bit of sauce in their tubes.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the meat evenly without sticking.
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides the savory, meaty base that is packed with flavor.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and a subtle crunch that balances the richness.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Delivers fragrant warmth and depth to the sauce.
- Marinara sauce: The tomato base with herbs that creates the signature tangy, comforting flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes: Adds texture and freshness, making the sauce hearty without heaviness.
- Dried basil and oregano: Classic Italian herbs that infuse the sauce with aromatic earthiness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat to awaken your palate, if you like a mild kick.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmony.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds a luscious layer of softness inside the bake.
- Large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture, giving it structure and richness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Divided for mixing into the filling and sprinkling on top, it adds a nutty, sharp accent.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Ensures that cheesy, melty, stringy goodness in every bite.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and fresh herbaceous brightness for garnish.
How to Make Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start with boiling a large pot of salted water. Cooking the ziti or penne until al dente is key because you want the pasta to hold up during baking without turning mushy. Once perfectly tender but still slightly firm, drain it and set it aside to await the delicious sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil then add the ground beef or Italian sausage. As it browns, break it up with a spoon so that every bite is evenly meaty. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness. Then toss in the chopped onion, letting it soften and sweeten the mixture over a few minutes. Stir in the garlic last since it cooks quickly and you want it fragrant but not bitter.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes. Now, sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper too. Let this simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken just a bit. This savory sauce is the heart of the Classic Baked Ziti Recipe.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling
While the sauce simmers, prepare your cheese mixture by combining ricotta, the egg, half of the Parmesan, and half of the mozzarella in a bowl. This creamy blend will add luxurious pockets of flavor and moisture to the dish, giving it that iconic baked ziti feel.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked pasta on top so the sauce soaks in nicely. Dollop and spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta, then add half the remaining meat sauce. Repeat with the rest of the pasta, then the rest of the sauce on top.
Step 6: Add the Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the final layer. Cover your dish with foil to keep everything moist and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes so the cheese bubbles and browns beautifully, creating that irresistible crust.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, allow the baked ziti to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps everything settle and makes it easier to serve. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Now, your Classic Baked Ziti Recipe is ready to bring warmth and joy to your table!
How to Serve Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley chopped over the warm ziti adds a pleasant herbaceous note and bright color that makes each serving pop. For an extra indulgent touch, try a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to dial up the heat just a bit. You can also add freshly grated Parmesan at the table for those who love an extra cheesy finish.
Side Dishes
Classic Baked Ziti Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides that balance its richness. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette refreshes the palate perfectly. Garlic bread or crusty baguette slices are a no-brainer for sopping up every last bit of sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or green beans add a healthy crunch and color contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your baked ziti in individual ramekins for personal portions that feel special. You could also shape the pasta by baking it in muffin tins for cute, handheld pasta cups—perfect for casual parties or potlucks. Layered in a clear glass casserole dish, the vibrant layers show off beautifully, making for an eye-catching centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Classic Baked Ziti Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic leftover meal. Just make sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to preserve texture and freshness.
Freezing
This dish freezes exceptionally well, which makes it great for meal planning. Assemble the baked ziti in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. You can bake it straight from frozen—just add extra baking time and keep it covered until warmed through to prevent drying out.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to retain moisture, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If reheating a single serving, the microwave works too—just cover loosely to keep the cheese melty and prevent splatters. A quick sprinkle of fresh cheese or herbs after reheating revives that freshly baked charm.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Classic Baked Ziti Recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti or penne are traditional because of their tube shapes that trap sauce, rigatoni, macaroni, or even shells work wonderfully as well. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they don’t overcook in the oven.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese is a suitable substitute. For a smoother texture, blend cottage cheese before mixing it with the egg and Parmesan. Some people even use cream cheese or mascarpone to add richness, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, skip the meat and add roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant to the sauce for a vegetarian take. You can also use a plant-based ground meat substitute to keep the hearty texture while staying meat-free.
How spicy will the baked ziti be with red pepper flakes?
The addition of red pepper flakes gives just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. It’s optional and can be adjusted or left out altogether if you prefer a milder flavor profile that’s classic and crowd-pleasing.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Definitely! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge. It’s a great way to save time on busy days.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about settling down with a warm plate of Classic Baked Ziti Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big, delicious hug, making any day a little brighter and any gathering a little more special. Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of homemade Italian-American comfort food right in your own kitchen. You’ll soon understand why it’s a beloved classic for good reason!
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Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Classic Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-American casserole featuring tender pasta mixed with a flavorful meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and plenty of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, combining savory ground beef or sausage with aromatic herbs and a rich tomato sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) ziti or penne pasta
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups (500 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz (425 g) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti or penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion to the browned meat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes. Add dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce gently for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
- Mix the Cheeses: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup), and half of the mozzarella cheese (1 cup). Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and creamy.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly over the sauce in the baking dish. Dollop and spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the pasta layer. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta mixture. Add the rest of the cooked pasta in an even layer, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup) and mozzarella cheese (1 cup) evenly over the top of the assembled pasta and sauce.
- Bake Covered then Uncovered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use extra marinara sauce with sautéed vegetables.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef or sausage for a leaner option.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially; it will cook further in the oven and become tender.
- The ricotta mixture can be made ahead and refrigerated to save time during prep.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
