Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti

In our house, weeknight dinners are often a balancing act between quick, easy, and something that the whole family will actually eat without complaint. Let’s be honest, sometimes that feels like an impossible mission! But then there are recipes like this Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti. The first time I made it, the silence at the dinner table was deafening – in the best way possible! Everyone was too busy devouring this pasta perfection to talk. My usually picky kids went back for seconds (and even thirds!), and my husband declared it a new family favorite. The leftovers, if you’re lucky enough to have any, are just as delicious the next day. This recipe is truly a weeknight win, a potluck superstar, and honestly, just pure comfort food bliss in a baking dish. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, cheesy, and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly simple to throw together, look no further. This Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti is about to become your new go-to recipe.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Cheesy Baked Ziti Bliss

This recipe uses simple, readily available ingredients that combine to create a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Ziti Pasta: The star of the show! One pound of ziti pasta is the perfect amount for a family-sized dish. Ziti’s tubular shape is ideal for holding onto all that delicious sauce and cheese.
• Ground Beef: One pound of ground beef forms the hearty base of our baked ziti. Opt for lean ground beef to minimize grease, or use ground turkey or Italian sausage for variations.
• Italian Sausage (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor and richness, consider adding half a pound of Italian sausage (sweet or hot, depending on your preference) alongside or instead of ground beef. Remove the casings and crumble the sausage before cooking.
• Onion: One medium yellow onion, diced, provides aromatic depth and sweetness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for that classic Italian flavor. About 2-3 cloves will do the trick, but feel free to add more if you’re a garlic lover.
• Canned Crushed Tomatoes: A large 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes forms the base of the tomato sauce. Look for good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Tomato Paste: A small can of tomato paste (around 6 ounces) adds concentrated tomato flavor and richness to the sauce, helping to thicken it up.
• Dried Oregano: This classic Italian herb adds warmth and savory notes to the sauce.
• Dried Basil: Another essential Italian herb, dried basil complements the oregano and tomatoes beautifully.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To season the sauce and bring out all the flavors. Adjust to your taste preference.
• Sugar: A pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor of the sauce.
• Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta cheese is a key component of baked ziti, adding a layer of richness and texture. Use whole milk ricotta for the best flavor and texture.
• Egg: One egg helps to bind the ricotta cheese mixture and prevent it from becoming too watery.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps to create a golden-brown crust on top.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese is the ultimate melting cheese, providing that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave in baked ziti. Use part-skim or whole milk mozzarella depending on your preference.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional, for garnish): Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Baked Ziti

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and satisfying Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti:

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add the ziti pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions for al dente. It’s crucial not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Al dente pasta will have a slight bite to it.
• Once the pasta is cooked, drain it thoroughly in a colander. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

• While the pasta is cooking, prepare the meat sauce.
• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat.
• Add the ground beef (and Italian sausage, if using) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Properly browning the meat is key for developing deep flavor.
• Add the diced onion to the skillet with the cooked meat and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
• Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
• Add the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and sugar to the sauce. Stir to incorporate the seasonings.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Simmering allows the flavors to meld and deepen. The longer it simmers, the richer the sauce will become.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture

• While the sauce is simmering, prepare the ricotta cheese mixture in a medium bowl.
• In the bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese (reserve the other half for topping).
• Season the ricotta mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained ziti pasta with about two-thirds of the meat sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Reserve the remaining sauce for topping.
• Spread half of the sauced pasta mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
• Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta layer, distributing it evenly.
• Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
• Top with the remaining sauced pasta mixture, spreading it in an even layer.
• Pour the reserved meat sauce over the top pasta layer.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

• Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in and prevent the top from browning too quickly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, covered.
• Remove the aluminum foil and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the sauce is heated through. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
• Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, before serving.

Nutrition Facts: A Cheesy Delight (Per Serving, Approximate)

This nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. It is based on a serving size of approximately one-eighth of the entire baked ziti dish.

• Serving Size: 1/8 of the 9×13 inch baking dish
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 calories per serving. Calories provide energy for the body.
• Protein: Around 25-30 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
• Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams of fat per serving. Fat is necessary for energy, hormone production, and nutrient absorption. Choose lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• Carbohydrates: Around 45-55 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. Opt for whole wheat pasta for increased fiber.
• Sodium: Approximately 600-800 mg of sodium per serving. Sodium is an electrolyte important for fluid balance, but excess intake should be monitored.

Note: These values are estimates. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time: Get Dinner on the Table Quickly

This Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti is surprisingly efficient for such a satisfying dish. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time: 25-30 minutes. This includes dicing onions, mincing garlic, browning the meat, preparing the ricotta mixture, and assembling the casserole.
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes. This includes simmering the sauce and baking the ziti in the oven.
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes – 1 hour 15 minutes. From start to finish, you can have this comforting baked ziti ready in just over an hour, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

How to Serve: Complete Your Baked Ziti Feast

Baked Ziti is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but here are some delicious ways to serve it and create a balanced and satisfying dinner:

• Classic Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crusty garlic bread alongside the baked ziti for dipping into the sauce and soaking up all the cheesy goodness.
• Simple Side Salad: A fresh and crisp side salad provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the baked ziti. A simple vinaigrette dressing complements the Italian flavors.
• Caesar Salad: For a slightly more substantial salad option, a Caesar salad adds a creamy and tangy element to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers add nutrients and a lighter element to the plate. Drizzle with olive oil and Italian herbs for complementary flavors.
• Steamed Green Beans: A simple side of steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon juice offers a fresh and healthy counterpoint to the rich pasta bake.
• Meatballs or Italian Sausage (on the side): For extra heartiness, serve meatballs or Italian sausage alongside the baked ziti.
• Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the Italian flavors of baked ziti.
• Dessert: Follow up with a light and refreshing dessert like cannoli, tiramisu (in smaller portions), or fresh fruit salad to complete the meal.

Additional Tips for Baked Ziti Perfection

Elevate your Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti from good to absolutely amazing with these helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is key for baked ziti. Overcooked pasta will become mushy during baking. Cook it just until it’s slightly firm to the bite.
2. Simmer the Sauce for Flavor Depth: Don’t rush the sauce! Simmering it for at least 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and deepen, resulting in a richer and more flavorful sauce.
3. Use Good Quality Cheese: Invest in good quality ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. The cheese is a star ingredient, and better quality cheese will make a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
4. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Season each layer – the sauce, the ricotta mixture, and even the pasta water – to ensure every bite is flavorful. Taste and adjust seasonings as you go.
5. Make it Ahead of Time: Baked ziti is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it completely and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
6. Freeze for Future Meals: Baked ziti freezes beautifully. Assemble and bake it as directed, then let it cool completely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
7. Customize Your Meat: Feel free to experiment with different meats. Ground turkey, Italian sausage (sweet or hot), or even a combination of ground beef and sausage all work wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
8. Add a Layer of Vegetables: Sneak in extra veggies by adding a layer of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers between the pasta and ricotta layers. This adds nutrients and flavor without sacrificing the cheesy comfort.

FAQ: Your Baked Ziti Questions Answered

Got questions about making the best baked ziti? We’ve got answers!

Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ziti?
A: Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni are all great substitutes for ziti in this recipe. Choose a pasta shape that has ridges or tubes to hold onto the sauce.

Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, easily! Simply omit the ground beef and Italian sausage. To add heartiness, you can sauté vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions and add them to the sauce. You can also add lentils or crumbled vegetarian meat substitutes.

Q3: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned crushed tomatoes?
A: Yes, you can. You’ll need about 6-8 large ripe tomatoes. Peel and chop them, then simmer them down until they break down into a sauce. You may need to simmer them for longer to achieve a similar consistency to canned crushed tomatoes. You might also need to adjust the seasoning and add a touch more tomato paste to intensify the flavor.

Q4: How do I prevent my baked ziti from being watery?
A: Several factors can contribute to watery baked ziti. Make sure you drain the pasta thoroughly after cooking. Also, simmer the meat sauce until it thickens slightly. Don’t add too much liquid to the ricotta mixture. Finally, ensure you are not using overly watery ricotta cheese; drain excess liquid from the ricotta if necessary.

Q5: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Yes! To add some heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while it’s simmering. You can also use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet sausage, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.

Q6: How long does baked ziti last in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked baked ziti will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Q7: Can I reheat baked ziti in the microwave?
A: Yes, you can reheat individual portions of baked ziti in the microwave. Cover loosely and microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until heated through. However, reheating in the oven will yield a better texture, especially for larger portions.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat leftover baked ziti in the oven?
A: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the leftover baked ziti with aluminum foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the cheese topping if desired. You may need to add a splash of water or tomato sauce to the bottom of the dish if it seems dry.

Enjoy making and sharing this Easy Cheesy Baked Ziti! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion.

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