Description
Cheesy Baked Ziti Skillet
“A comforting, cheesy, and meaty pasta bake that’s perfect for family dinners!”
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Sauce:
12 oz ziti or penne pasta
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 cup heavy cream or ricotta cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layer:
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar or provolone
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti/penne until al dente, drain, and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, brown the ground beef/sausage over medium heat.
Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce, heavy cream/ricotta, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Combine Pasta & Sauce
Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Add the Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot & enjoy!
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of garlic butter before baking! Want to make it extra creamy? Mix in a spoonful of ricotta cheese!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a foolproof Cheesy Baked Ziti Skillet. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 12 oz of ziti in well-salted boiling water until just al dente, then drain. While the pasta cooks, brown 1 lb of ground beef in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart. Drain any excess fat. To the meat, add 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1/2 cup of heavy cream (or ricotta), and the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper). Stir and simmer for 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and add the drained pasta, tossing to coat thoroughly. Evenly top the mixture with 1 1/2 cups mozzarella, 1/2 cup cheddar, and 1/4 cup Parmesan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots. Let it cool for 5 minutes before garnishing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet is a meal in itself but pairs beautifully with simple sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a soft, warm dinner roll is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce. For a vegetable-forward option, roasted broccoli or asparagus makes a delicious and healthy accompaniment.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook pasta. Brown meat and simmer with sauce and seasonings. Combine pasta and sauce in the skillet. Top with a triple-cheese blend. Bake at 375°F until golden and bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the skillet completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? Full-fat ricotta, cottage cheese, or even a cream cheese softened with a bit of milk are excellent substitutes for a creamy texture.
Is a cast iron skillet necessary? While ideal for even heating and going from stovetop to oven, any oven-safe skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish will work. If using a baking dish, combine everything in a pot first before transferring.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover the skillet with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze baked ziti? Absolutely. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap the entire skillet or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook only to al dente, as it will soften further while baking in the sauce.
- Not using an oven-safe skillet: Double-check your skillet’s handle material to avoid damage or melting in the oven.
- Skipping the simmer: Letting the sauce simmer for 5 minutes after adding seasonings is crucial for flavor development.
- Using pre-shredded cheese exclusively: While convenient, pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the melt less smooth. For best results, shred your own block cheese.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Ziti Skillet is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a satisfying, flavorful, and creamy pasta bake with minimal cleanup. Its versatility with ingredients and make-ahead potential makes it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a perfectly golden, bubbly result every time. Dig in and enjoy this crowd-pleasing classic!