Easy Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been a staple in my family for, well, longer than I can remember. It’s my go-to **easy classic baked ziti recipe**, and honestly, it’s just pure comfort food in casserole form. Think of it as lasagna’s easier, quicker, and arguably even more delicious cousin. You know how lasagna can be a whole *project*? This ziti? Not at all. It’s the perfect dish when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. My grandma used to make a version of this every Sunday, and the smell wafting through the house is one of my fondest childhood memories. I’ve tweaked it over the years, but the heart of it remains the same: simple, delicious, and totally crowd-pleasing.
What is Baked Ziti?
What is baked ziti? Instead of lasagna noodles, we’re using ziti – those lovely little strands of pasta. What are tube-shaped noodles? Think of it as a deconstructed lasagna, without the fuss of layering delicate noodles. It’s essentially pasta, a rich tomato-based sauce, lots of cheese (we’re talking ricotta, not mozzarella) and topped with roasted What is the difference between mozzarella and par ), and baked until bubbly and golden brown. What is a comfort food? What are some of the most versatile foods to add to a dish? Is this the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, making it a weeknight winner? What is a pot
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Let me tell you, there are a *million* reasons why you’re going to fall head-over-heels in love with this **easy classic baked ziti recipe**. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. We’re talking rich, savory tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and that satisfyingly melty mozzarella pull. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that just works. But beyond the flavor, the real magic lies in its simplicity. Seriously, this is one of those recipes that’s practically foolproof. It requires minimal effort and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. What I love most about this is how budget-friendly it is. You can feed a whole family (or a very hungry you!) for under $20, which is a huge win in my book. And the versatility! You can easily customize it to your liking. Add some ground beef or sausage for a heartier meal, or throw in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms for a healthier twist. I’ve even made a vegetarian version with roasted eggplant that was to die for. Honestly, this baked ziti is a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and it’s always a hit at potlucks and gatherings. It’s also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and have easy meals ready to go whenever you need them. It’s like the gift that keeps on giving! Compared to some of my other pasta recipes, like my fettuccine alfredo (which is delicious, but requires a little more finesse), this is truly a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal.
How do I make a classic baked ziti?
Quick Overview
What are some easy baked ziti recipes? How do you cook ziti pasta? While the pasta is cooking, you’ll whip up a simple tomato sauce, either homemade or from jars (I like to make homemade sauce for my pasta). Then, you’ll combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, ricotta cheese, and some parmesan. What is the best way to serve mozzarella cheese in a baking dish? What are some good ways to top mozzarella and bake until golden brown? Is it so simple and the results are amazing? If you’re a beginner cook, you can nail this recipe.
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
* 1 pound ziti pasta
* 1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce (or homemade, if you’re feeling ambitious)!
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim, your choice)
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping.
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-in
* 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained. *
* 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. How do you keep a ziti from sticking to the bottom of your mouth? I always do this step first because forgetting to grease the pan is the worst! Trust me, I’ve learned from experience.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package directions, but cook it *al dente*. This means that the pasta should still be slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will get mushy in the oven, and nobody wants that! Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Mix everything together until it’s smooth. The egg helps to bind the ricotta and gives it a nice, creamy texture. I’ve tested this with low-fat ricotta, and honestly, the whole milk version makes a difference, but I don’t know how much. If you’re trying to cut back on calories, the part-skim works just fine.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked ziti pasta to the bowl with the cheese mixture. In a large bowl, pour the marinara sauce and stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If you’re using any optional add-ins like cooked meat or vegetables, now is the time to add them in. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Ziti
Half of the pasta mixture should be spread into a baking dish. Bake for 30 minutes. What is the best way to serve mozzarella cheese on top? Then, spread the remaining pasta mixture evenly over the mozzarella cheese. What is the best way to serve mozzarella cheese with it?
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep warm for at least 5 minutes. Is a brownish brown color Keep an eye on it towards the end to make sure the cheese doesn’t burn. What is the baking time in an oven?
Step 7: Let It Rest
Once ziti is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving. How do you slice cheese? What are some of the best ways to get the flavors to meld together?
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice ziti into squares and serve hot. What are some good ways to serve Parmesan cheese on top? I also like to serve it with a side salad or garlic bread. Don’t forget red wine! What are some of the best dinners to make for a special occasion?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best baked ziti recipes? What are some ideas organized by occasion?
For a casual weeknight dinner:What is a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette? I also love serving it with some crusty garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. What is the best red wine to drink?
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For a potluck or gathering:Baked ziti is always a crowd-pleaser, so it’s great choice for any potluck. I like to serve it with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, or an omelette. I love to eat it alone. What are some good chocolate brownies for dessert?
For a Special Occasion:If you’re serving baked ziti for a special occasion, you might want to dress it up. I like to serve it with a fancy salad, such as spinach salad with strawberries and goat cheese. What are some good side dishes to serve with asparagus? What are some good desserts to serve?
In my family, we always serve it with a simple side salad and some garlic knots. It’s a tradition that has been passed down for generations, and it just wouldn’t be the same without it.
What are some tips for perfecting your easy classic baked ziti?
What is your favorite easy baked ziti recipe? How can I achieve ziti perfection?
Don’t overcook pasta!As I mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to cook pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta will get mushy in the oven, and that’s not what we want. Aim for pasta that’s slightly firm to the bite.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste. Use good-quality marinara sauce, fresh ricotta cheese, and flavorful mozzarella cheese. It really makes a difference!
Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: This is a cheesy pasta bake, so don’t be afraid to load up on the cheese! Use a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top to create a melty, gooey, golden-brown crust.
Customize It to Your Liking: This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your own taste. Add meat, vegetables, or different types of cheese. Get creative and make it your own!
Let It Rest Before Serving: As I mentioned earlier, letting the ziti rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving allows the cheese to set up and the flavors to meld together. It also makes it easier to slice and serve. I’ve rushed this step before and regretted it – the slices just fall apart!
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. It adds a nice kick without being overpowering.
I learned these tips through years of trial and error, so trust me – they’ll help you create the best baked ziti ever!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? No problem! This **easy classic baked ziti recipe** stores beautifully and reheats like a dream. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
Refrigerator Storage: Let the ziti cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked ziti. Let it cool completely, then cut it into individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. You can also store it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat refrigerated ziti, you can microwave it, bake it in the oven, or heat it on the stovetop. For best results, I recommend baking it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. To reheat frozen ziti, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Then, bake it in the oven as directed above. I’ve found that adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating helps to restore the melty, gooey texture.
A note on glaze timing: If you added a fresh herb garnish after baking, remove that before storing, and then add a fresh garnish after reheating for the best flavor and appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my **easy classic baked ziti recipe**, straight from my kitchen to yours! This is more than just a recipe; it’s a piece of my family’s history, a symbol of comfort and connection, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe that everyone should have a go-to baked ziti recipe in their repertoire, and I hope this one becomes yours. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes, like my creamy pesto pasta or my spicy arrabbiata. They’re all equally delicious and easy to make. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! And if you put your own spin on it, definitely share your variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!
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Easy Classic Baked Ziti Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for garnish
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan.
- Spoon the pasta mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
