Baked Ziti Recipe
Comforting, cheesy baked ziti with a rich tomato sauce and bubbling mozzarella.
There's nothing quite like pulling a bubbling tray of baked ziti from the oven. The cheese is golden and crusty on top, the ziti nestled within a rich, savory tomato sauce. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, evoking warmth and togetherness with every bite. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Baked ziti has roots in Italian-American cuisine, a testament to the beloved flavors brought by immigrants to this melting pot of a country. I remember my grandmother making this dish, her kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of simmering tomatoes and garlic, a guarantee of something delicious to come.
What makes this recipe special is the trick of using a mixture of ricotta and cream cheese. It adds a creaminess that pairs beautifully with the ziti and holds up the robust meat sauce. Serving it straight from the oven ensures the cheese stretches just the right way, a stringy, satisfying reward for your effort.
Whether it's for a Sunday supper or a potluck, baked ziti is always a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and heartiness make it perfect for feeding a hungry crowd, leaving everyone blissfully content.
Step-by-Step
- 01Step 1 / 9
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- 02Step 2 / 9
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Drain excess fat.
- 03Step 3 / 9
Add the onion to the beef and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 04Step 4 / 9
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- 05Step 5 / 9
While the sauce simmers, cook the ziti in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes.
Drain and set aside.
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- 06Step 6 / 9
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta and cream cheese until smooth.
Stir in half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese.
- 07Step 7 / 9
Combine cooked ziti with the cheese mixture in a large bowl.
Add half of the meat sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- 08Step 8 / 9
Spread a layer of the remaining meat sauce in the prepared baking dish.
Add the ziti mixture, then top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella.
- 09Step 9 / 9
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Chef Tips
- •For a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
- •Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid a lumpy mixture.
- •Let the baked ziti rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting to help it set.
- •Use fresh mozzarella for a more luxurious texture.
- •Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
Nutrition (per serving)
Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.
Frequently Asked
Can I make this ahead?+
Yes, assemble the ziti and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours and bake when needed.
What can I substitute?+
You can use penne or rigatoni in place of ziti, and ground turkey instead of beef.
How do I store leftovers?+
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
