Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to any gathering. This hearty Italian-American dish combines perfectly cooked pasta with rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and your favorite meats or vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a delicious meal prep option, baked pasta dishes like these are always a hit, embraced for their flavor and ease of preparation.
Moreover, the appealing combination of flavors in a cheesy baked pasta makes it an irresistible choice for both casual meals and special occasions. As you layer ziti with your choice of ingredients, you create a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also delights the senses. So, let’s dive into the world of baked pasta and discover why this delightful dish holds such a cherished place in kitchens everywhere!
Ingredients:
To create a delightful Baked Ziti that’s creamy and cheesy, gather the following ingredients:
– 1 pound dry ziti pasta
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
– 6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
– 1 ½ cups sour cream
– 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cooking the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, sauté the chopped onion in a large skillet, adding the ground beef until browned. Afterward, mix in the spaghetti sauce and allow it to simmer briefly. In a separate bowl, blend sour cream and half the mozzarella to create a creamy layer.
Once everything is ready, layer the ingredients together for a scrumptious baked experience. Baked Ziti is a wonderful dish the whole family will enjoy. For more comforting recipes, such as Baked Spaghetti, check out this comforting classic. Enjoy the layers of flavor and cheesy goodness!
How to prepare :
To make a delicious baked ziti, start by cooking 1 pound of dry ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 chopped onion, and sauté until translucent. Next, incorporate 1 pound of lean ground beef, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Once the beef is ready, pour in two 26-ounce jars of spaghetti sauce, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
In a large mixing bowl, blend 1 ½ cups of sour cream with cooked pasta and half of the meat sauce. Grease a baking dish and layer the ziti mixture, followed by a layer of sliced provolone cheese and the remaining meat sauce. Top it off with 6 ounces of shredded mozzarella and 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. This savory baked ziti recipe is a comforting dish that you’ll adore, just like my baked spaghetti, perfect for family gatherings!
Why Baked Ziti is Perfect for Dinner:
Baked Ziti is a classic comfort dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This delightful pasta casserole combines flavorful marinara sauce, cheese, and perfectly cooked ziti, making it a hit for families and gatherings. The beauty of Baked Ziti lies in its versatility; you can easily customize it with your choice of proteins, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your taste. For a delightful twist, consider pairing it with a side of Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti, which offers a creamy, indulgent contrast.
Preparing this dish is straightforward, allowing you ample time to relax or mingling with guests during dinner parties. Not only is it simple, but it also fills up those hungry bellies efficiently. To explore this dish more deeply, check out the full recipe on AllRecipes. Whether you are hosting a gathering or looking for weekday meal prep, Baked Ziti serves as a delicious solution, offering a satisfying experience bite after bite.
Tips for the Best Baked Ziti:
To make the ultimate baked ziti that always impresses, follow these simple tips. First, choose high-quality ingredients. Use fresh pasta, robust tomato sauce, and flavorful cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta. Layering the ingredients can enhance taste; start with a layer of sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Additionally, consider slightly undercooking the pasta by a minute or two. This helps it absorb the sauce as it bakes, resulting in a perfect texture. Don’t forget to let your baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier. For a unique twist, try adding sautéed vegetables or herbs to your mixture. You might also enjoy exploring related dishes like baked cream cheese spaghetti for an exciting variation. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can elevate the presentation and flavor. Happy cooking!
Storage Tips for Baked Ziti:
When it comes to storing your delicious baked ziti, the right approach can keep it fresh and tasty for later enjoyment. First, allow your baked ziti to cool completely before storing it. This step is crucial as it prevents condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
For short-term storage, you can keep it in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing your baked ziti. Cut it into individual portions to make reheating easy. Wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe containers, it can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake until bubbly.
For more delightful meal ideas, check out my Baked Mac and Cheese, which also makes for a great make-ahead dish!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Ziti:
When serving baked ziti, consider pairing it with a fresh, crisp salad for a balanced meal. A simple side of garlic bread can also elevate the experience, offering the perfect crunch alongside the cheesy goodness. For a hearty option, try serving it with some baked cream cheese spaghetti. This delightful combination complements the flavors and textures beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Baked Ziti?
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a blend of cheeses. The dish is baked until bubbly and golden, making it a cozy favorite for family dinners.
Can I prepare Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble Baked Ziti a day in advance. Simply layer your ingredients in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What types of cheese work best?
Traditionally, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are used in Baked Ziti. However, feel free to experiment with other varieties like provolone or fontina for added flavor.
Is Baked Ziti freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze Baked Ziti both before and after baking. If freezing before, cover it tightly with foil to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
How do I make it healthier?
For a lighter version of this dish, consider whole grain pasta, low-fat cheese options, and adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. You may also check out our delicious Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti recipe for a creamy alternative.
Can I customize the recipe?
Definitely! Baked Ziti is highly customizable. You can add cooked ground meat, sausage, or vegetables to create your own unique twist. Feel free to get creative with seasonings and toppings as well.
Print
Baked Ziti: The Ultimate Family Favorite
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-American classic featuring layers of ziti pasta, savory ground beef, rich spaghetti sauce, and gooey cheeses, all baked to perfection.
Ingredients
1 pound dry ziti pasta
1 onion
chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
6 ounces provolone cheese
sliced
1 ½ cups sour cream
6 ounces mozzarella cheese
shredded
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, then add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, sour cream, and half of the meat sauce mixture; mix well.
- Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased baking dish, layer with provolone cheese, then half of the remaining meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining ziti mixture, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and finish with the remaining meat sauce and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes; then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables or different types of cheese.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Baked Ziti, pasta, Italian-American, comfort food, baked dishes