Name: Delicious Baked Ziti: 5 Tips for a Perfectly Cheesy Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Ziti (or penne or rigatoni); 1 pound ground Italian sausage; 1 pound ground beef; 1 Tablespoon minced garlic; 1 onion (finely diced); 24 ounces marinara sauce; 14 ounces crushed tomatoes; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 3 cups Mozzarella cheese (12 ounces); 1 cup Parmesan cheese

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Baked Ziti is a delightful Italian dish that has become a staple in many homes. This recipe is hearty, cheesy, and packed with rich Italian flavor. Imagine digging into warm, oven-baked ziti, mixed with savory sausage and ground beef, all enveloped in a luscious marinara sauce. Topped with bubbling mozzarella and parmesan, every bite is a comforting taste of home. Let’s dive into how to create this classic dish!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is perfect for family dinners or gatherings for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying, making it an ideal comfort food. Second, this dish is versatile; you can easily switch up ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, such as making a vegetarian baked ziti or adding baked ziti with sausage. Third, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can serve many, making it a great choice for events. Fourth, it’s an easy baked ziti recipe that requires minimal prep time. Fifth, you can prepare it ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining. Lastly, it’s a fantastic way to use leftovers, making it an eco-friendly option!

Ingredients for Baked Ziti

Gather these items:

1 pound Ziti (or penne or rigatoni)
1 pound ground Italian sausage
1 pound ground beef
1 Tablespoon minced garlic
1 onion (finely diced)
24 ounces marinara sauce
14 ounces crushed tomatoes
¼ cup heavy cream
1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
3 cups Mozzarella cheese (12 ounces)
1 cup Parmesan cheese

How to Make Baked Ziti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Step 2: Cook ziti pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, do not rinse.
Step 3: While the pasta is cooking, cook the sausage, ground beef, minced garlic, and onion in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Stir often and break up the meat as you go, until the meat is no longer pink and it begins to lightly brown.
Step 4: Add marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and pepper and stir to combine.
Step 5: Add the cooked ziti pasta to the sauce and stir to combine.
Step 6: Then, spread the noodle/sauce mixture evenly into a 9×13” baking dish.
Step 7: Sprinkle the mozzarella then parmesan cheese over the top of the ziti.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese just barely begins to brown.
Step 9: Remove from oven, let sit for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly grated cheese for the best taste and texture.
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a nutrient boost in your ziti casserole.
Let the baked ziti cool slightly before serving; it helps the layers set.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat while cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Ziti

There are countless ways to enjoy your oven-baked ziti. Pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For cozy nights in, enjoy it with a glass of red wine, enhancing the Italian experience!

How to Store and Reheat Baked Ziti

After serving, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. This is also a great dish for meal prep, as you can prepare it in advance and bake it when ready to eat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ziti

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Ziti?

The secret to perfect Baked Ziti is in using quality ingredients and not overcooking the pasta. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Also, letting it rest before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I make Baked Ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Baked Ziti ahead of time. Simply assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Ziti?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure the pasta is not overcooked before adding it to the sauce. Additionally, use enough sauce to prevent dryness, and don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps with slicing and serving.

Delicious Baked Ziti: 5 Tips for a Perfectly Cheesy Dish - Baked Ziti - additional detail

Variations of Baked Ziti You Can Try

If you’re feeling adventurous, try these variations of Baked Ziti:
1. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with roasted vegetables and add ricotta cheese for creaminess.
2. For a heartier dish, consider adding meatballs or extra sausage for a meaty twist.
3. You can also make a one-pot baked ziti by cooking everything in one pot for easy cleanup.
These variations showcase the versatility of this classic Italian baked ziti recipe.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage for a delightful twist!

For tips on cooking pasta perfectly, visit this guide on cooking techniques.