Introduction
Baked ziti, a comforting and satisfying pasta dish, holds a special place in the hearts (and stomachs!) of Americans. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and everything in between. This classic baked ziti recipe is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your repertoire.
Making the Perfect Classic Baked Ziti
Gathering Your Ingredients
The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional, for meat lovers!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce (Optional): If using meat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Ziti: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce (or simply the tomato sauce if omitting meat).
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread half of the ziti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the ziti. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Top with the remaining ziti mixture.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the ziti is heated through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Baked Ziti
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better during baking.
- Use high-quality cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and good-quality mozzarella will make a difference in the flavor.
- Customize the sauce: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Freeze it for later: Baked ziti freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw completely before baking.
Variations and Adaptations
Vegetarian Baked Ziti
Skip the meat altogether and load up on vegetables! Sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach and add them to the tomato sauce.
Spicy Baked Ziti
Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Baked Ziti with Spinach
Stir a package of frozen, thawed, and squeezed dry spinach into the ricotta mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
Conclusion
This classic baked ziti recipe is a guaranteed winner. It’s versatile, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to share at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and satisfying baked ziti experience. Happy cooking!
