Baked Ziti Recipe for Cozy Nights In

There’s something magical about the aroma of baked ziti wafting through the house. Picture this: a bubbling dish, cheese oozing with every scoop, and the rich smell of marinara that makes your mouth water. It’s not just food; it’s a hug in a casserole dish, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in when you need a little comfort.

I remember my first attempt at making baked ziti. My kitchen looked like a pasta explosion, sauce splattered everywhere, and I was convinced I had just created the next great disaster. But as it baked, the chaos transformed into an irresistible scent that pulled everyone to the table. Now, every time I whip up this dish, it feels like a warm invitation to gather around and share stories over cheesy goodness.

Ingredients for baked ziti

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ziti Pasta: Choose medium-sized ziti for the perfect texture to hold all that cheesy goodness.
• Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and helps bind everything together—don’t skimp on quality!
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Use whole milk mozzarella for that melty stretchiness we all crave in baked dishes.
• Marinara Sauce: A good jarred marinara can save you time; look for one with no added sugar for better flavor.
• Ground Beef or Sausage: For meat lovers, adding cooked ground beef or sausage gives an extra savory layer to the dish.
• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil brightens up the flavors and adds some color on top.

For added flavor:

• Garlic Powder: Just a hint of garlic powder elevates the taste without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top before baking for an irresistible crust.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make baked ziti

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions—this usually takes around eight minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Your Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed, then add marinara sauce directly into the pan with the meat. Let it simmer together while you prep everything else.

Step 3: Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with garlic powder (if using) and half of your shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well until fully blended—this mixture will be creamy heaven!

Step 4: Layer It Up

In a baking dish, start layering your ingredients—begin with some meat sauce at the bottom (to prevent sticking), then half of the cooked pasta followed by half of your cheese mixture. Repeat those layers again! Top everything off with remaining mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (to keep moisture in) and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional ten minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Once out of the oven, let it sit for five minutes (if you can resist!). Then garnish with fresh basil before serving—it’s like putting on that final touch of flair!

Transfer to plates and watch as everyone digs in—the joy on their faces is worth every step taken in the kitchen!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your pasta until al dente, then drain it while you prepare the sauce. Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil before adding tomatoes and herbs. Mix everything with the pasta and cheese, then bake until golden brown and bubbly for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your baked ziti! Swap out traditional ricotta for cottage cheese or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You can also play with spices – a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Adding a splash of marinara can keep it moist and delicious.

I remember the first time I made baked ziti for my friends. They devoured it in seconds and insisted I open a restaurant right then and there! Their enthusiasm still makes me smile whenever I whip up this dish.

FAQs:

What is baked ziti?

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Typically, it includes ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, which create a rich and creamy texture when baked. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks because it’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd. Often topped with fresh herbs or more cheese before baking, baked ziti delivers delicious flavors that everyone loves.

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare baked ziti in advance by assembling all the ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Just ensure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy your dish, bake it directly from the freezer or thaw it overnight in the fridge before cooking.

What variations can I try for baked ziti?

When it comes to baked ziti, the possibilities are endless! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For meat lovers, incorporating ground beef or sausage enhances the flavor significantly. Alternatively, you could make a lighter version using whole wheat pasta or low-fat cheese. Feel free to experiment with different sauces such as pesto or Alfredo for unique twists on this classic dish.

How do I store leftover baked ziti?

To store leftover baked ziti properly, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about three to five days. If you have a larger amount left over, consider freezing individual portions. Just use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date so you can easily keep track of freshness when you’re ready for another serving.

Looking to expand your recipe collection? Check out these tasty recipes for your next culinary adventure.

Conclusion for baked ziti:

Baked ziti is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile and satisfying. With its layers of pasta, rich sauce, and melty cheese, it makes a delightful meal that pleases everyone at the table. Whether you choose traditional recipes or add your personal spin with various ingredients, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Embrace its simplicity and enjoy every comforting bite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Baked Ziti

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A comforting and cheesy dish layered with creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and melty mozzarella that warms the heart at any gathering.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz ziti pasta

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

For the Sauce:

• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. 1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. Prepare Your Meat (if using): In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer.
3. 3. Mix the Cheese: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, garlic powder (if using), and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until well blended.
4. 4. Layer It Up: In a baking dish, layer ingredients starting with meat sauce at the bottom. Add half of the cooked pasta, then half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. 5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
6. 6. Garnish & Serve: Allow to sit for five minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 220g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg