Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. This classic Italian-American dish is layered with ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. You’ll find that every bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Imagine a bubbling casserole dish coming out of the oven, the cheesy aroma filling the air, and the excitement of gathering around the table to share this hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
The Best Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
This baked ziti features tender pasta enveloped in savory marinara sauce and a blend of cheeses, creating a dish that’s comforting, cheesy, and downright delicious. Each forkful is a satisfying experience that perfectly combines the flavors of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, followed by dollops of ricotta cheese and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Pour another layer of meat sauce on top, then add the remaining ziti, finishing with the rest of the meat sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
