why make this recipe
Easy Baked Ziti is warm, simple, and loved by many. It feeds a family and makes good leftovers. If you like quick meals, you can also look at a similar 15-minute meals idea for other fast dinners.
introduction
This baked ziti recipe uses common ingredients and clear steps. You cook pasta, mix it with meat and cheese, then bake until golden. For a cozy weeknight, see a slow-cooker option like a slow-cooker dinner idea to plan other meals.
how to make Easy Baked Ziti
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large baking dish, mix pasta with meat sauce and ricotta mixture.
- Layer with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
You can follow a one-pan method for less cleanup by using ideas from one-pot meal tips.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large baking dish, mix pasta with meat sauce and ricotta mixture.
- Layer with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
how to serve Easy Baked Ziti
Serve hot from the oven. A green salad and crusty bread make a good side. For more simple side ideas and quick meals, check this easy meal guide.
how to store Easy Baked Ziti
Let the ziti cool to room temperature. Cover the baking dish or move to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, wrap well and keep up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Easy Baked Ziti
- Do not overcook the pasta; cook to al dente so it holds up when baked.
- Drain fat from the meat to keep the sauce from getting greasy.
- Mix the ricotta well with the egg to make a smooth filling.
- You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more color and nutrients. For fast swaps and ideas, see this quick recipe list.
variation (if any)
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for more flavor.
- Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.
- Make it vegetarian: skip meat and add mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Penne or rigatoni work well.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble and refrigerate up to a day before baking.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave single servings.
Q: Can I use store-bought ricotta or cottage cheese?
A: Store-bought ricotta works best. Cottage cheese changes texture, but it is okay if you blend it smooth.
Easy Baked Ziti
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large baking dish, mix pasta with meat sauce and ricotta mixture.
- Layer with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.