Description
Classic Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty Italian dish. This recipe layers tender ziti pasta, savory ground beef (or sausage), and a flavorful marinara sauce, all topped with ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a family-friendly meal, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the meat: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble the dish: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture on the bottom. Then layer half of the cooked ziti pasta, followed by half of the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage for a more flavorful option.
- For a creamy variation, mix in some heavy cream or half-and-half with the marinara sauce.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Italian
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian