Easy Peasy Cheesy Baked Ziti: Weeknight Winner!

Need a comforting dinner? My Easy Baked Ziti is here! Think cheesy layers of pasta and sauce - like a lasagna, but simpler. Get the recipe!

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave something cheesy, saucy, and oh-so-satisfying? this easy baked ziti recipe is your answer! it's a big hug in casserole form.

I'm talking classic italian comfort food. think cheesy ziti pasta casserole that's both easy and flavourful.

Brief Overview

The origins of this dish are firmly rooted in italian-american home cooking. it's designed to feed a crowd and uses simple ingredients.

This best ziti bake recipe is beginner-friendly. you can expect a prep time of 20 minutes and a cook time around 35- 40 minutes.

This will give you about 6-8 servings of pure deliciousness.

Main Benefits

Besides being absolutely delicious, this italian baked dish is a great way to sneak in some extra protein and calcium.

It's the perfect centrepiece for a family gathering. imagine serving this at your next sunday dinner! it's special because it's both incredibly easy to make and completely satisfying.

You could even try doing a baked ziti dutch oven if you are feeling fancy.

Step-by-Step to Ziti Heaven

First, you’ll need to cook one pound of ziti pasta. remember to cook it until al dente , don't get it soggy.

Overcooked pasta? oh my gosh, it's a disaster in the making! next, brown one pound of ground beef in olive oil.

Once the beef is browned, add onion and garlic. cook those until softened. i always add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this point.

It is a little secret of mine to bring out the flavor. then stir in marinara sauce and crushed tomatoes.

Next, whip up the cheese mixture. Mix ricotta cheese with a little egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Trust me, fresh parsley makes a difference. Now, the fun part! Assemble everything.

Spread sauce, then cheese, then ziti, topping it all off with mozzarella. Into the oven it goes at 375° F. After about 30- 35 minutes, you'll have a bubbling, golden masterpiece.

What Makes This Ziti the Best?

It's all about the balance. a perfectly seasoned sauce, creamy ricotta, and cheesy mozzarella. plus, it’s endlessly adaptable. seriously, you can swap out the meat for veggies.

Want it spicy ? add more red pepper flakes! try using baked ziti homemade sauce for the ultimate homemade experience.

Serving it Up

Serve this masterpiece with a side of garlic bread. or, even better, a simple green salad for some contrast. and a glass of chianti? honestly, does it get any better? you can even get creative.

Like turning this into a lasagna baked ziti hybrid.

Let's Talk Tips & Tricks

Don’t overcook the pasta! seriously, this is the golden rule. and use good quality cheese. you’ll taste the difference, promise.

Letting it rest for ten minutes before serving. it helps everything set and makes it easier to slice.

So there you have it! A truly easy baked ziti recipe. Now go forth and bake!

Alright, let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this easy baked ziti . this isn’t rocket science, promise! think of it as a delicious, comforting hug.

The best ever baked ziti starts with good ingredients, after all.

Ingredients & Equipment: The Lowdown

No need to stress, we're keeping it simple. You probably have half of this stuff already kicking about.

Main Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this Cheesy Ziti Pasta Casserole :

• Pasta: 1 pound (454g) ziti pasta. I like mine al dente, not soggy!
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15ml) This is essential for cooking the meat.
• Ground Beef: 1 pound (454g) , or Italian sausage. Drain that grease, folks!
• Onion: 1 medium (1 cup, 150g) , chopped. Don't be shy.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best.
• Marinara Sauce: 1 (24-ounce) jar (680g) . Your fave brand will do!
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (15-ounce) can (425g) . Adds depth to the sauce.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon . A must for Italian flavor.
• Dried Basil: ½ teaspoon . Don't skip it.
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces (425g) , whole milk or part-skim.
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten. Helps bind the ricotta.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (25g) , grated. Adds a salty kick.
• Parsley: 2 tablespoons , chopped fresh, optional.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups (225g) , shredded. The magic blanket on top!

For key ingredients, quality is key. Fresh garlic makes a huge difference, trust me. And Baked Ziti Homemade Sauce ? Always a win!

Seasoning Notes

Essential spice combinations are your friends! Oregano and basil are the classic Italian power couple. A pinch of red pepper flakes? Boom! Baked Ziti Salt And Lavender is something that one of my chef friends once suggested, and honestly, it added a beautiful flavour that was surprisingly complex!

Flavor enhancers and aromatics like garlic are non-negotiable. A little onion powder can boost the savory notes too. As for Substitutions? If you're out of oregano, Italian seasoning works in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

You don't need fancy gear for this Bake Ziti Recipe With Ground Beef . Honestly, if you've got a saucepan, skillet, and oven dish, you're set!

• Large Pot: For boiling that ziti.
• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For browning the meat and making the sauce. A Baked Ziti Dutch Oven is a real treat!
• 9x13 inch (23x33cm) Baking Dish: For baking. You can use a casserole dish too!
• Colander: For draining the pasta. Obvs.

Don't have a fancy baking dish? a sturdy casserole dish works just fine. remember, this is about making a delicious, comforting pasta dish for large group that everyone will love.

This pioneer woman ziti recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a culinary blank canvas for your personal touch.

So, gather your ingredients, crank up the tunes, and let's get cooking!

Easy Peasy Cheesy Baked Ziti: Weeknight Winner!

Oh my gosh! This easy baked ziti recipe is like a warm hug. Think comfort food at its finest! Like a warm hug from your Nonna, even if you don't have one! This recipe will guide our creative endeavours!

This recipe is your go-to for a comforting meal. it's surprisingly simple to make! we're talking layers of perfectly cooked ziti pasta.

Also, a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and tons of mozzarella. it's lasagna, but easier ! perfect for family dinner, or a potluck.

This dish is a crowd-pleaser. this cheesy ziti pasta casserole will be the best.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic!

First, get your stuff together. this is the essential mise en place . chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out your cheese.

Honestly, it makes the whole process so much smoother.

For time-saving, measure out all your spices into a small bowl ahead of time. Also, use pre-shredded mozzarella. No judgement here! Remember safety! Don't cut yourself, and watch out for hot surfaces.

Step-by-Step: Baked Ziti Bliss

1. Cook 1 pound ziti pasta. Follow the package directions. Until it's al dente ! Drain well. Nobody likes mushy pasta!
2. Brown 1 pound ground beef (or sausage) in a pan with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Drain the grease! Nobody wants a greasy ziti.
3. Sauté 1 chopped onion in the pan until soft, about 5 minutes . Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.
4. Stir in 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce and 1 (15-ounce) can crushed tomatoes. Add 1 teaspoon oregano, ½ teaspoon basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes . This melds the flavors.
5. Mix 15 ounces ricotta cheese, 1 egg, ¼ cup parmesan, 2 tablespoons parsley, salt, and pepper. This is the cheesy goodness!
6. Mix cooked ziti with half of the meat sauce.
7. Layer the remaining sauce, ricotta mixture, and the ziti mixture in a baking dish. Spread it evenly.
8. Top with 2 cups mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 30- 35 minutes . Until bubbly and golden brown. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Ziti!

Don't overcook the pasta. al dente is key! otherwise, it will become mushy and sad. also, you can make this baked ziti make ahead .

Assemble it, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. bake as directed. don't forget the salt! baked ziti salt and lavender are perfect.

Speaking of which, Did you know that Baked Ziti became especially popular due to its prominent role in television shows like The Sopranos ?

Honestly, this recipe is so good, you might just call it the Best Ever Baked Ziti . Enjoy!

Alright, let's dive into the extra bits about our easy peasy cheesy baked ziti . these are those little nuggets of wisdom that'll make your bake extra special.

Honestly, these tips can take your best ever baked ziti to the next level.

Recipe Notes: Making the Magic Happen

Serving Like a Pro

Okay, so you've got this bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. now what? plating can be as simple or fancy as you like.

I like to serve a generous square on a plate and garnish it with a sprig of fresh basil – adds a pop of color!

For sides, some garlic bread is always a winner. you know? nothing beats dunking that crusty bread into the baked ziti homemade sauce .

A simple side salad with a vinaigrette cuts through the richness. a glass of red wine? perfect!

Storage Secrets

Leftovers? Lucky you! This Cheesy Ziti Pasta Casserole is even better the next day!

• Refrigeration: Let it cool, then wrap it well or pop it in an airtight container. It'll happily hang out in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Fancy making a Baked Ziti Make Ahead ? You can freeze it before baking. Wrap it really well (like, double wrap!) and it'll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
• Reheating: The microwave works in a pinch. I like to reheat individual portions in oven, for a perfect texture. 350° F ( 175° C) until heated.

Remix Time!

Want to shake things up? Let's get creative.

• Dietary Adaptations: For a veggie version, just swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and peppers. Easy peasy!
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the summer, throw in some roasted zucchini or eggplant. In the fall, butternut squash would be amazing.

Nutrition Lowdown

Look, this is comfort food, so it's not exactly a health food. But everything in moderation! Each serving is roughly around 450-550 calories. It is packed with protein and carbs.

My Experience

Once, I tried to make a Lasagna Baked Ziti , and messed it up. My point is that you can change things.

Don't forget to Bake Ziti Recipe With Ground Beef .

Go Forth and Bake!

Making this easy baked ziti is seriously rewarding. Don't be intimidated, just have fun with it! You will do amazing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this easy baked ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! This baked ziti is a champion make-ahead dish. Assemble it completely, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through. Just like a good cup of tea, sometimes a bit of a steep is exactly what the doctor ordered!

What's the best way to store leftover baked ziti?

Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, microwave until heated through or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and warm - just like a shepherd's pie.

I'm not a meat-eater. Can I make a vegetarian version of this baked ziti recipe?

Of course! To make a veggie version, simply omit the ground beef. You can replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for added texture and flavor. A tin of lentils works wonders to! Just make sure they're properly drained and rinsed.

My family doesn't like ricotta cheese. Is there anything else I can use in this easy baked ziti?

No worries! If ricotta isn't your cup of tea, you can substitute it with cottage cheese that has been well-drained. You could also use a béchamel sauce (a simple white sauce) for a creamy, cheesy layer. Don't tell anyone, but some folks even use cream cheese softened with a bit of milk.

How can I prevent my easy baked ziti from drying out in the oven?

Nobody wants a dry ziti! To prevent your baked ziti from drying out, make sure to cover the baking dish with foil for the first 20-25 minutes of baking. This helps to trap moisture. Also, ensure your sauce is adequately moist before assembling – a little extra sauce never hurt anyone!

Can I add any extra veggies to this easy baked ziti?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra veggies to the sauce. Some good options include sautéed onions, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them to the sauce while it's simmering, giving them enough time to soften and meld their flavors with the sauce. Think of it as a Italian ratatouille meets baked pasta!

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