Baked Ziti

This Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food with layers of tender pasta, a rich tomato sauce, and plenty of gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes for a delicious dinner any night of the week!

Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion. You can even prep it in advance and bake it just before serving. The balance of savory flavors and cheesy goodness will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft.

4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

5. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese.

6. Combine the cooked pasta and sauce mixture, and then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 470 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Origins of Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is an Italian-American classic that traces its roots to Southern Italy. The dish gained popularity in the United States, where Italian immigrants introduced it to various regions. Originally, ziti was a pasta shape commonly used in Southern Italy, and it was paired with hearty tomato-based sauces, cheeses, and meats. Over time, baked ziti became a go-to casserole dish, with many variations appearing across different kitchens.

This dish is often compared to lasagna, another beloved Italian-American favorite, but it’s quicker and easier to make, with fewer layers. While lasagna requires precise layering and more prep time, baked ziti is a much more casual dish that allows for flexibility and creativity. That’s why it’s a popular choice for busy weeknights and gatherings. It’s a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Key Ingredients for Baked Ziti with Ground Beef

The key to a perfect baked ziti is using simple, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you need to create this delicious dish:

1. Ziti Pasta: Ziti pasta, with its tubular shape, is perfect for holding the rich meat sauce and cheese. If you don’t have ziti, penne pasta works just as well, especially the kind with ridges that help hold the sauce.

2. Ground Beef: Ground beef forms the base of the meat sauce. It’s sautéed with onions, garlic, and herbs to create a savory filling for the casserole. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef.

3. Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is the backbone of this dish. You can use store-bought marinara or make your own, depending on how much time you have. A flavorful sauce will make a huge difference in the overall taste of the dish.

4. Cheese: Cheese is an essential ingredient in baked ziti. Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a rich, melty topping that complements the tomato sauce perfectly. You can also add ricotta cheese if you like a creamier texture, though this recipe focuses on mozzarella and Parmesan for simplicity.

5. Pancetta (Optional): Pancetta adds an extra layer of depth and richness to the dish. Its smoky, salty flavor enhances the meat sauce and pairs wonderfully with the ground beef.

How to Assemble Baked Ziti

Assembling baked ziti is an easy process that doesn’t require any special techniques. The ingredients are layered together in a baking dish and baked until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Here’s how to assemble your baked ziti:

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by cooking the ziti pasta in salted water until it’s just al dente. Be careful not to overcook it since the pasta will continue to cook while baking.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the pancetta until crispy, then brown the ground beef in the same skillet. Add onions, garlic, and herbs, and then stir in the marinara sauce. Let the sauce simmer to build flavor.

3. Layer the Dish: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce and pancetta. Then, layer half of the pasta mixture in a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pasta, followed by the remaining pasta and cheese.

4. Bake the Ziti: Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Customization Options

One of the best things about baked ziti is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ways you can customize your baked ziti:

1. Pasta Varieties: While ziti is the traditional pasta for this dish, you can swap it out for other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even macaroni. The key is to choose a pasta that holds sauce well.

2. Meat Choices: Ground beef is the most common protein used in baked ziti, but you can easily swap it for other ground meats. Ground turkey or chicken provides a leaner alternative, while Italian sausage adds a spicy kick to the dish.

3. Vegetarian Version: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat entirely and use extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You could also add some tofu or plant-based meat crumbles for protein.

4. Cheese Options: The cheese options for baked ziti are endless. You can add ricotta cheese for a creamier texture, or experiment with other cheeses like gouda, cheddar, or fontina for a different flavor profile.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a fantastic make-ahead meal. It stores well in the fridge for several days, and it’s also a great dish to freeze for later. Here’s how to store and reheat your baked ziti:

1. Storing Leftovers: After baking, let the ziti cool to room temperature. Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

2. Freezing: You can freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months. If you plan to freeze it, it’s best to use an aluminum pan, as it’s easier to thaw and bake in. Let the dish cool completely before covering and freezing.

3. Reheating: To reheat, simply cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven at 350°F until it’s warmed through. If you’re reheating a smaller portion, you can use the microwave.

Nutritional Information

While baked ziti is a rich and indulgent dish, it’s also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The nutritional content of this dish will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, but here’s an estimate per serving:

• Calories: 480 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 26g

• Cholesterol: 61mg

• Sodium: 963mg

• Potassium: 421mg

• Fiber: 6g

• Sugar: 10g

• Calcium: 34mg

• Iron: 21mg

These values are calculated using a standard ingredient database and may vary depending on portion sizes and ingredient variations.

Conclusion

Baked ziti with ground beef is the perfect dish for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week. With its cheesy, hearty layers and comforting flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this easy-to-make pasta casserole is sure to impress.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have available, making it a great option for busy weeknights. And with the ability to store and freeze leftovers, you’ll always have a tasty meal ready to go when you need it.

So, next time you’re in need of a satisfying, no-fuss meal, give this baked ziti recipe a try. It’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!