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To make the ultimate baked ziti, you will need a few key ingredients. Here’s the list: - 12 oz ziti pasta - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 small onion, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option) - 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce - 2 teaspoons dried oregano - 2 teaspoons dried basil - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference) - Salt and pepper to taste - 15 oz ricotta cheese - 1 egg - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) Each ingredient plays a big role in the flavor and texture of the dish. The ziti pasta provides a great base, while the ground meat adds richness. The tomato products bring acidity and sweetness, and the herbs and spices enhance the overall taste. The cheeses create a creamy, cheesy layer that makes this dish irresistible. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat the oven Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures even cooking. - Cook the ziti pasta Boil water in a pot. Add the ziti and cook until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside. - Sauté onion and garlic Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Add 1 small chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Stir until the onion turns soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. - Brown the ground meat Add 1 pound of ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook until it turns brown. Drain any excess fat. - Simmer the tomato sauce Pour in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes and 15 ounces of tomato sauce. Add 2 teaspoons of dried oregano, 2 teaspoons of dried basil, and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. - Combine ziti with meat sauce In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the meat sauce. Make sure the pasta is well coated. - Layer ingredients in baking dish In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Add half of the ricotta cheese mixture, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top. - Cover and bake Add the rest of the ziti mixture on top. Spread the rest of the ricotta cheese and 1 cup of mozzarella evenly. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil. - Uncover and finish baking Bake covered for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes. The cheese should bubble and turn golden brown. - How to achieve al dente pasta To get the best pasta, cook ziti until it's slightly firm. Follow the package time but check a minute early. The pasta will finish cooking in the oven. - Best type of meat to use Ground beef works well for rich flavor. If you want a lighter dish, try ground turkey. Both options give great taste to the baked ziti. - Adjusting spice levels Spice can make or break your dish. Start with one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce and add more if you like it spicy. - Preventing sticking while baking To avoid sticking, cover the dish with foil. Spray the foil with cooking spray. This keeps the cheese from sticking and helps it melt evenly. - Ensuring even cheese melt When layering cheese, use both mozzarella and Parmesan. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top. This helps create a smooth and bubbly finish. - Perfecting the golden crust Remove the foil in the last 15-20 minutes. This allows the cheese to brown nicely. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: Cook the ziti just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents mushy pasta. Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. Cheese Variations: Mix different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, for a unique taste and texture. Make Ahead: Assemble the baked ziti a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to serve. {{image_2}} You can make baked ziti healthier. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This cuts fat and adds lean protein. Choose whole grain or gluten-free pasta for more fiber. You still get the same tasty dish, but it’s better for you. If you want a meatless dish, try tofu or lentils. These options add protein and texture. For cheese lovers, use dairy-free cheese. There are many brands available now that melt well. This way, you can enjoy baked ziti without meat or dairy. Want to boost the flavor? Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. They add nutrients and taste. You can also try different herbs and spices. Fresh basil or oregano can brighten up the dish. Experiment to find your perfect mix! After enjoying your baked ziti, let it cool down. This helps avoid steam. Place the leftover ziti in a container with a tight lid. You can use glass or plastic containers. Glass is safer for reheating. Keep the leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil. This helps keep the flavor and texture intact. To reheat baked ziti, use the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the ziti in an oven-safe dish. Add a splash of water or sauce on top. Cover the dish with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes. If you want to use a microwave, add some water and cover the dish. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This method helps avoid dryness. Enjoy your warm and cheesy meal! How long to cook baked ziti? You should bake the ziti for about 40-45 minutes. Cover it for the first 25 minutes. Then, uncover it and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This gets the cheese bubbly and golden. Can I make baked ziti ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare baked ziti a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you are ready to eat. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. What to serve with baked ziti? Baked ziti pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with steamed veggies. This adds color and nutrition to your meal. Can I freeze baked ziti? Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. Just let it cool down, then wrap it tightly. You can freeze it for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. Substitutes for ricotta cheese? If you need a ricotta substitute, try cottage cheese. You can also use mascarpone cheese. Both options work great in baked ziti. How to add more flavor to the sauce? To boost flavor in the sauce, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also mix in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers. A splash of red wine can deepen the taste too. Baked ziti is a fun, easy dish to make. You now know the key ingredients and how to cook and bake them just right. I shared helpful tips and tricks to improve flavor and texture. Whether you're cooking for family or trying vegan options, there’s a way for everyone to enjoy it. Store leftovers well and reheat properly for the best taste. With this guide, you are ready to make a tasty baked ziti that everyone will love. Go ahead and enjoy your cooking adventure!

Ultimate Baked Ziti

A delicious and cheesy baked pasta dish perfect for gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • optional fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  • While the sauce simmers, mix the ricotta cheese and egg in a bowl until combined. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, folding until the pasta is evenly coated.
  • In a 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over it, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  • Top with the remaining ziti mixture, followed by the rest of the ricotta and the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Finally, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Cover with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Allow the baked ziti to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey for a lighter option.
Keyword baked ziti, cheesy, comfort food, pasta