Imagine gathering around the family table, the aroma of rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella filling the air. Classic Baked Ziti is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. This ziti, baked to golden perfection, is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It embodies the essence of home-cooked warmth and culinary creativity that Zynahz loves to share.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat.
Pour in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir to combine and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Spread a layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add a layer of the ziti mixture. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a meat sauce layer on top.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Prepare ahead: Assemble the ziti the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.
- Freezing: Assemble the dish and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Pairings
This Classic Baked Ziti pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of robust red wine. For dessert, consider serving tiramisu or a simple fruit platter.
Gather your loved ones and enjoy the comforting flavors of Classic Baked Ziti. I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Share your photos with #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave feedback on Zynahz and subscribe to our newsletter for more scrumptious recipes. Follow Zynahz on social media for daily culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!
