Main Dishes Recipes
Recipe:

Baked Ziti

By Toni Oliver - 03/27/2025

Baked Ziti is a hearty Italian-American pasta dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. This comforting casserole is perfect for gatherings and can be prepared ahead of time.

Preparation and Yield

Cook time: 30 min Prep time: 15 min Total time: 45 min 6 servings

Nutrition:

450 calories per serving 20 grams of fat per serving

Ingredients:

450g (1 lb) ziti pasta 500g (1 lb) ground beef or Italian sausage 1 jar (700ml) marinara sauce 250g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese 120g (1/2 cup) ricotta cheese 60g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp dried oregano 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy!

The Origins of Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is an Italian-American classic that has its roots in traditional pasta al forno. This dish was inspired by baked pasta dishes commonly prepared in Southern Italy, where ingredients like tomato sauce, cheese, and herbs are abundant. Over the years, it became a favorite in American households, known for its comforting layers of pasta, meat, and cheese.

Why Baked Ziti is a Family Favorite

Baked Ziti is loved for its rich flavors and simplicity. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and robust marinara sauce creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture. It's a great dish for meal prepping, as it can be assembled in advance and baked when needed. Plus, it's versatile—you can add vegetables or swap meats to suit different dietary preferences.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti

To make the best Baked Ziti, use high-quality cheese and a flavorful marinara sauce. Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it doesn't become too soft when baked. For a crispy top, broil the dish for the last few minutes. Let it rest before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the cheese to set.

FAQs about Baked Ziti

1 Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare baked ziti up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

2 What’s the best cheese combination for baked ziti?

The best combination includes ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for stretch, and Parmesan for a sharp, nutty flavor. This trio creates the perfect cheesy balance in baked ziti.

3 Can I use a different type of pasta for baked ziti?

Yes! While ziti is traditional, you can substitute penne, rigatoni, or any tube-shaped pasta. Just make sure to cook it al dente to prevent over-softening when baked.

4 How do I prevent baked ziti from drying out?

To keep baked ziti moist, ensure you use enough sauce and cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking. Removing the foil at the end allows the cheese to brown without over-drying the pasta.

5 Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.