great baked ziti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
great baked ziti recipe
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The Best great baked ziti recipe

I’ve been making this great baked ziti recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. I think what I love most about it is the way the flavors of the tomato sauce, the cheese, and the pasta all come together to create something truly special.

It’s a dish that’s deeply rooted in Italian-American cuisine, and it’s easy to see why – who can resist a good plate of ziti smothered in rich, meaty sauce and melted mozzarella cheese? The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, even for a weeknight dinner.

All you need is some good quality pasta, a decent tomato sauce, and a blend of cheeses to top it off with. My kids love helping me make this dish, and they’re always excited to see it on the table at the end of the day.

We like to serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This recipe has been passed down through my family for years, and I’m so glad I get to share it with you today.

Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti

4.7 from 994 votes

A comforting classic Italian dish featuring ziti pasta baked with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ziti pasta
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain and set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
7Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
8Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
9Drain excess fat.
10Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
11Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly.
12In a baking dish, combine the cooked ziti pasta and the meat sauce, stirring well to coat the pasta evenly.
13Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
14Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
15Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
16This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 60mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

Watch Video Of How Cheesy Baked Ziti Works

This great baked ziti recipe has become a staple in our household over the years – not just because it tastes amazing but also because it’s so easy to prepare.

Whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need something quick for dinner tonight, this recipe is sure to please even picky eaters.

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for longer-term storage; simply thaw as needed and reheat as above.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Baked Ziti

Q1: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

The best type of pasta for baked ziti is tubular pasta, such as ziti or penne. These shapes allow the sauce to coat each piece evenly and prevent the pasta from becoming mushy during baking.

Q2: Can I use low-fat cheese instead of regular mozzarella?

While you can use low-fat cheese if you prefer, keep in mind that it will affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

Q3: How do I prevent my ziti from becoming too dry?

Avoid overcooking your pasta before baking it with the sauce and cheese – this will help ensure that your final product stays moist and flavorful.

Q4: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Sure! You can prepare all the components of your baked ziti (sauce, cheese mixture) ahead of time, then assemble and bake as needed.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftover baked ziti?

To reheat leftover baked ziti effectively, try microwaving individual portions until warm through – or better yet, enjoy it straight from the fridge!

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