Embrace the hearty, comforting essence of Italian-American cuisine with this Easy Baked Ziti recipe. This classic dish combines tender ziti pasta, flavorful ground beef, and a rich trio of cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a family dinner or gathering, offering the kind of warm, cheesy goodness that draws everyone to the table.
A Timeless Dish That Delivers
Baked ziti is a beloved staple in many households due to its simple preparation and satisfying taste. This version elevates the traditional with layers of creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan, all enveloped in a savory marinara sauce. Each bite offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures, making it a guaranteed hit for any meal.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 6-8 people
- Equipment: Skillet, large pot, 9×13 inch baking dish
Easy Baked Ziti Recipe:
Dive into the cheesy, meaty goodness of this delicious baked pasta dish, which is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is ready to bake the ziti to cheesy perfection.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the ziti according to package instructions until just al dente; drain and set aside. Al dente pasta is crucial as it continues to cook in the oven, preventing it from becoming too soft.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, ensuring the beef is flavorful and well-seasoned.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce and oregano into the beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Mix Pasta and Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the ricotta cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese. This mixture creates a creamy base for your dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, start layering half the pasta mixture, followed by half the meat sauce, and then half the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers to use up all ingredients.
- Bake: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked ziti with freshly chopped basil before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
A Hearty Meal to Remember
This Easy Baked Ziti is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a comforting meal that brings smiles and satisfaction to your dinner table. Serve it hot for a cozy family dinner, accompanied by a crisp salad and warm garlic bread for a complete dining experience. Enjoy the rich layers of pasta, cheese, and savory sauce that make this dish a beloved classic.