Description
Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish featuring pasta, meat, and a blend of creamy cheeses, all coated in savory tomato sauce. It’s perfect for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ziti or penne pasta (cooked al dente)
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage (optional, browned)
- 2 cups tomato sauce (marinara or your favorite)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking meat and drizzling)
- to taste salt and pepper (for seasoning)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumb topping (optional, toasted with garlic and butter)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti or penne according to package instructions, but stop about 2 minutes early. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat (if using): In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and ground beef or sausage. Cook for about 8 minutes until browned.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce with the cooked meat. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Season and mix until smooth.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, cheese mixture, and half of the remaining mozzarella. Repeat the layers.
- Bake the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Cut into squares, garnish if desired, and enjoy.
Notes
Reheating tips: Microwave individual servings or reheat in the oven covered to prevent drying out.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: baked ziti, italian pasta, comfort food