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.
