Best Ever Baked Ziti Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Best Ever Baked Ziti is the perfect dish. With layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, savory meat, and a cheesy, gooey finish, it brings together all the best flavors in one hearty meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner with family, this baked ziti will become a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Cheesy and Flavorful

With a mix of fresh mozzarella, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, every bite of this baked ziti is a cheesy dream come true. The combination of garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and meat adds deep, savory flavors.

2. Simple and Easy to Make

This recipe uses basic ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Versatile

You can easily customize the recipe by swapping out the ground beef for ground sausage, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like plant-based meat or extra vegetables.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time and stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for meal prepping or preparing in advance for busy days.

5. Comforting and Satisfying

Baked ziti is a classic comfort food that’s filling and satisfying, providing a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or ground sausage
• 28 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Skip the meat and use extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, or opt for plant-based meat substitutes.
• Spicy Baked Ziti: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some spicy sausage to give the dish a bit of heat.
• Different Cheeses: You can substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ziti Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the cooked meat. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well.

Step 5: Layer and Bake

Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and fresh mozzarella. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, you can broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Let it Rest: Allow the baked ziti to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Using fresh mozzarella adds a delicious creamy texture and a rich flavor to the dish.

How to Serve

Best Ever Baked Ziti is perfect on its own, but you can serve it with some crusty garlic bread and a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Top with some fresh basil or additional grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. After baking, allow the ziti to cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through.

Reheating

Reheat leftover ziti in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to keep the cheese from over-browning and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you prefer. Ziti is traditional, but any short pasta works well.

3. Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Just make sure to cover it properly and store it for up to 3 months.

4. Can I make baked ziti without meat?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables or plant-based meat substitutes.

5. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Yes, homemade marinara sauce will work just fine in this recipe. If you’re using store-bought sauce, look for one with minimal added sugar and preservatives for the best flavor.

6. Can I add extra cheese?

Yes, feel free to add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy. You can mix in ricotta or use extra mozzarella and Parmesan.

7. Can I make baked ziti without ricotta cheese?

This recipe doesn’t require ricotta cheese, but if you’d like, you can add some for extra creaminess.

8. Can I add vegetables to baked ziti?

Yes, you can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce to make it even more hearty and flavorful.

9. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef or sausage.

10. How long should I bake baked ziti?

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil for an extra 2-3 minutes.

Conclusion

This Best Ever Baked Ziti recipe is a crowd-pleasing, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you make it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. With its rich marinara sauce, savory meat, and gooey, melted cheese, this baked ziti will quickly become a family favorite.

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