Meatball Baked Ziti Recipe

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that brings the whole family together, and Meatball Baked Ziti is the perfect embodiment of that warmth. Imagine juicy, homemade meatballs nestled among perfectly cooked ziti noodles, all enrobed in rich marinara sauce and topped with a bubbly, golden layer of melted cheese. This hearty meal is sure to become a favorite for weekend dinners or special family gatherings. The process of making this dish can be a delightful family activity, filled with lots of love and laughter. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe you can adapt to suit different tastes and seasons.

Recipe Summary

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large, round, rustic ceramic baking dish.
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Form the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. In the prepared baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
7. Place the cooked ziti pasta over the marinara sauce, then arrange the meatballs on top of the pasta.
8. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the ziti and meatballs, making sure everything is well-coated.
9. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the dish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Helpful Tips

For a fun variation, you can add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef. This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to a day before baking.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or heat individual portions in the microwave.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of ziti, penne or rigatoni pasta can be excellent substitutes. For a different flavor profile, try using a blend of ground beef and pork for the meatballs.

Pairings

This Meatball Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of robust red wine like Chianti or Merlot. For a family-friendly beverage, try serving with sparkling water with a splash of lime or a chilled grape juice.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this comforting Meatball Baked Ziti. We love seeing your culinary creations, so be sure to share your masterpieces using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website at https://www.zynahz.com/. If you haven’t already, subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow Zynahz on social media to stay inspired in the kitchen. Happy cooking!