If you are craving a hearty, comforting pasta dish that bursts with cheesy goodness and rich flavors, look no further than this delightful Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe. Picture tender ziti pasta smothered in a savory meat and marinara sauce, layered lovingly with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan that creates the perfect golden crust. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate, bringing warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Once you try this classic Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe, it’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you want to indulge in a little cheesy magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is straightforward, and every item plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the ziti that holds all the goodness together to the blend of cheeses that provide that irresistible gooeyness, each component is simple yet essential in crafting the perfect baked ziti.
- 1 pound ziti pasta: Tubular pasta that traps sauce and cheese inside, making every bite flavorful.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty, savory richness and protein to the dish.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: A robust tomato base that infuses the pasta with tangy, herby goodness.
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it balances the acidity of the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The classic melty cheese that brings everything together in gooey harmony.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish and helps form the golden crust on top.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture for perfect layering without it falling apart.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brightens the sauce and meat with fragrant notes.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a gentle garlic punch without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius), setting the stage for perfect baking. Meanwhile, boil a large pot of salted water and cook the ziti pasta until it’s just shy of al dente. This ensures the pasta finishes cooking in the oven without becoming mushy. Drain it well and set aside, ready to be layered with all the tasty components.
Step 2: Cooking the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown your ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from getting oily, then stir in your marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let this simmer gently for about 5 to 7 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully, creating a rich, savory sauce base for your baked ziti.
Step 3: Mixing the Ricotta Layer
While your meat sauce simmers, mix up the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creamy mixture acts like a luscious layer in your Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe, providing a soft, slightly tangy contrast to the hearty meat and pasta. The egg helps everything bind together for a satisfying texture that stays intact after baking.
Step 4: Assembling the Baked Ziti
Grab a 9-by-13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of meat sauce along the bottom—this prevents sticking and adds flavor from the very first bite. Layer half of your cooked ziti on top, then dollop and spread all the ricotta mixture evenly across. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and a bit of the Parmesan cheese over the ricotta. This layering technique builds a beautiful blend of textures and flavors.
Step 5: Completing the Layers and Baking
Next, add the remaining pasta and cover it with the rest of the meat sauce. Finally, generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and pop it in the oven for 20 minutes. Removing the foil after this initial bake allows the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden masterpiece as it bakes for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 6: Resting Before Serving
Once the cheese is perfectly melted and slightly browned, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve and allowing all the flavors to settle into a harmonious blend that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a final touch of fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley can brighten the rich flavors of your baked ziti while adding a pop of color. A gentle drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate each bite with subtle heat and aroma.
Side Dishes
This hearty Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or garlic bread to sop up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or broccoli, also offer a fresh contrast that balances the richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your baked ziti in individual ramekins to give each guest a personal, bubbling cheesy casserole. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass dish to showcase the beautiful layers, turning your dinner table into a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place your leftover baked ziti in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious the next day, perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Assemble your baked ziti but don’t bake it yet; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra baking time, and enjoy a convenient meal that tastes fresh and homemade.
Reheating
For the best texture when reheating refrigerated or thawed baked ziti, cover it with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20 to 30 minutes. This method keeps the cheese melty and the pasta tender without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, penne or rigatoni work just as well because they are tubular and hold the sauce and cheese nicely.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite veggies to maintain heartiness and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire dish up to one day in advance, store it in the fridge, then bake when you’re ready for a fresh, hot meal.
What type of cheese gives the best flavor for baked ziti?
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan is classic for a reason—they balance creaminess, meltiness, and sharpness perfectly to create that iconic baked ziti taste.
How do I prevent my baked ziti from drying out?
Make sure to cover the dish with foil while baking initially and don’t overcook the pasta before baking—it will finish cooking in the oven with the sauce keeping it moist.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy with every forkful. It’s simple to make yet deeply satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family feasts. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Once you experience the melty, cheesy layers and rich, savory flavors, you’ll understand why I keep coming back to it again and again!
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Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Cheesy Baked Ziti is a comforting Italian-American classic featuring tender pasta baked in a savory meat marinara sauce layered with creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors and gooey, cheesy satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound ziti pasta
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the ziti later.
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook the ziti pasta until just under al dente, then drain and set aside to prevent overcooking during baking.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning; simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors.
- Mix the cheese filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well mixed.
- Assemble the casserole – first layers: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then add half of the cooked pasta, spread all of the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta, and sprinkle half of the mozzarella and some Parmesan on top.
- Assemble the casserole – final layers: Add the remaining pasta over the ricotta layer, then top with the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and melt the cheeses.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Rest before serving: Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes once out of the oven to allow it to set for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
- Do not overcook the pasta to avoid mushy texture after baking.
- For a vegetarian version, omit ground beef and use extra vegetables or mushrooms in the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can prep and assemble the dish a day ahead, then refrigerate before baking.
