Baked Ziti Recipe

Introduction

Baked Ziti is one of those comforting dishes that brings the whole family together. It’s easy to prepare and always a hit at dinner parties or potlucks. When I first made this recipe, my family couldn’t get enough! The layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese create a mouthwatering combination that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a summer gathering, this Baked Ziti is bound to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 small diced red pepper
• 1 small diced green pepper
• 1 small diced yellow onion
• 8 minced garlic cloves
• 1 (25-ounce) jar pasta sauce
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil

For the Ziti:

• 1 box ziti pasta
• 16 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped basil
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook Ziti

Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Make Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Add the diced onions, red pepper, green pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the pasta sauce, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes until flavors meld.

Combine Ziti Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and the spices. Mix well, and then add some of the meat sauce to the ziti mixture for extra flavor.

Layer Ziti

Spoon a thin layer of meat sauce into a 13×9 baking dish. Add half of the ziti mixture, then sprinkle with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Top with another layer of meat sauce, followed by the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 30-45 minutes. Uncover the dish and broil for a few minutes at the end to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese top.

Cool and Serve

Allow the baked ziti to cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 450
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 25g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• Plate Individual Portions: Serve each person a generous helping on a plate.
• Garnish: Top with additional chopped basil or parsley for color.
• Pair with Sides: Consider serving with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: Prepare the ziti a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.
2. Meat Alternatives: Use vegetarian meat crumbles or just increase the veggies for a meatless option.
3. Cheese Variety: Mix in different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for added flavor.
4. Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for some heat.
5. Freezing: Baked ziti freezes well; portion it out for easy meals later.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable Ziti: Add more vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Cheesy Ziti: Incorporate more types of cheese, such as ricotta or fontina, for a richer taste.
• Pesto Ziti: Mix in basil pesto with the ricotta for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Salad: Serve with a Caesar or garden salad.
• Bread: Garlic knots or Italian bread pairs perfectly.
• Wine: A glass of red wine enhances the meal beautifully.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the baked ziti to cool completely, then portion into airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

• Yes, any tubular pasta like penne or rigatoni works well.

1. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the sauces are gluten-free.

1. How can I make it spicier?

• Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the meat sauce.

1. Can I skip the meat?

• Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian baked ziti by adding more vegetables.

1. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

• Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be used as alternatives.

1. How do I prevent the ziti from drying out?

• Make sure to cover the dish while baking, and add more sauce if necessary.

1. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

• Yes, the meat sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

1. Is it okay to reheat leftovers?

• Yes, just make sure to cover it to retain moisture.

1. What should I do if it’s too cheesy?

• Reduce the amount of cheese used or substitute with more vegetables.

1. Can I add more vegetables?

• Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you like or have on hand!

Conclusion

Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a dish. Its layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and bubbling cheese create an irresistible comfort food experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, and let the delicious aroma fill your home as you bake this scrumptious dish. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!

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