Best Baked Ziti Ever Recipe

There's something so comforting about a bubbling, cheesy tray of baked ziti coming out of the oven. The rich tomato sauce, the tender pasta, and the creamy layers of cheese create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that never fail to satisfy.

this Recipe

This dish has become a staple in my home, especially for gatherings and weeknight dinners. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing taste make it an unbeatable choice. Let’s dive into the details and make this baked ziti your new favorite too!

Why You'll Love This Best Baked Ziti Ever Recipe

Get ready to enjoy a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and versatility in every bite. This baked ziti has something for everyone and is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

First, it's incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few easy steps, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready for your family. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

The gooey, cheesy topping is a showstopper. Layers of melty mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan create a golden crust that seals in all the goodness underneath. Every scoop delivers the perfect blend of flavors.

This dish is wonderfully versatile. Whether you want to add extra vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or make it ahead for meal prep, baked ziti adapts to your needs without losing its magic.

It’s also a great option for feeding a crowd. This recipe makes enough for generous portions, and leftovers taste just as amazing, if not better, the next day.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of baked ziti lies in its straightforward yet flavorful ingredients. Each component works together to create a comforting and delicious dish.

The pasta is the heart of this recipe. Ziti, with its tubular shape, is perfect for holding the sauce and cheese in every bite. If you don’t have ziti on hand, penne or rigatoni are excellent substitutes.

The sauce is made with a combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and aromatic seasonings. Using fresh garlic and onions enhances the flavor, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of warmth.

For the cheese, you'll need mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that signature stretchy topping. Ricotta adds creaminess, and Parmesan provides a sharp, salty kick to round out the flavors.

Adding ground beef or chicken gives the dish a hearty, protein-packed element. If you prefer a vegetarian version, sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini are excellent alternatives.

Don’t forget your herbs! Basil and oregano bring a classic Italian touch, and fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness to the finished dish.

You’ll need a large baking dish and a big pot for cooking the pasta. A sturdy skillet is also handy for preparing the sauce.

How To Make This Best Baked Ziti Ever Recipe

Making baked ziti is as easy as layering your ingredients and popping them in the oven. Follow these steps to create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, cook your ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water until it’s just shy of al dente. Drain the pasta and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. Add ground beef or chicken and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

While the sauce simmers, mix ricotta cheese with a beaten egg, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a bowl. This creates a creamy layer that pairs perfectly with the pasta and sauce.

Now it’s time to assemble! Spread a thin layer of sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Add half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the sauce, dollops of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of cheese on top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let the ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

The total prep and cook time is under an hour, making this dish as practical as it is delicious.

Storage Options

Baked ziti stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers.

If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the ziti in a covered dish until heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

For smaller portions, the microwave works well. Just cover the plate with a microwave-safe lid to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about baked ziti is how adaptable it is to your preferences. Here are a few ideas to customize your dish:

For a vegetarian twist, swap the ground meat for sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or spinach. These add a lovely depth of flavor and texture.

If you’re looking for a spicier version, stir a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce or use a spicy tomato blend for an extra kick.

Experiment with different cheeses to change up the flavor profile. Provolone or fontina are excellent additions to the mix, offering a unique creaminess.

Want to make it ahead? Assemble the ziti up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

For a lighter version, use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella and add extra vegetables for a nutrient boost.

Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or putting your own spin on it, this baked ziti is a guaranteed hit. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to savor every cheesy, saucy bite!

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