Description
Cheesy Baked Ziti
Ingredients
1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
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Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the ziti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat.
Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
3. Layer the Ziti:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, spread ricotta cheese on top, and add a layer of the meat sauce.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, and cheeses.
4. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the baked ziti.
Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing baked ziti. First, ensure your pasta is cooked al dente—it will soften further while baking. While the pasta cooks, brown your chosen meat in a large skillet, breaking it into crumbles. After draining the fat, add your marinara sauce and seasonings, letting the flavors meld over a low simmer. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start your first layer: spread half the ziti evenly. Using a spoon, dollop the ricotta cheese over the pasta, then spread half the meat sauce on top. Sprinkle with half of your mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat these layers once more. The key to a perfect bake is covering it with foil for the first 20 minutes to heat through, then removing the foil for the final 10 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese top.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty baked ziti is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are essential for scooping up every last bit of sauce. For a more expansive Italian feast, serve it alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Leftovers taste even better the next day and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
How-to Summary
To summarize, cook ziti pasta until al dente. Brown ground beef, then mix with marinara and seasonings. In a baking dish, create two layers of pasta, ricotta, meat sauce, and shredded cheeses. Bake covered at 375°F for 20 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different pasta? Yes. Penne, rigatoni, or shells are excellent substitutes that hold sauce and cheese well.
How do I prevent a dry baked ziti? Ensure your meat sauce is sufficiently saucy; you can add an extra 1/2 cup of marinara or a splash of pasta water. Also, don’t overbake once the foil is removed.
Can I freeze baked ziti? Perfectly. Assemble and bake as directed, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating, covered, in the oven.
Is there a substitute for ricotta? Cottage cheese (small curd) is a common substitute. For a richer, smoother texture, you can use a bechamel sauce instead.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will turn mushy during baking. Do not skip draining the fat from the browned meat, as this can make the final dish greasy. Ensure even layering; don’t dump all ingredients in clumps. Finally, do not forget to let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve neat portions.
Conclusion
This cheesy baked ziti recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a consistently delicious, hearty dish. Its versatility with ingredients and make-ahead convenience makes it a reliable staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Enjoy the rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying results of your efforts.