How to Make Italian Baked Ziti for a Hearty Meal

If you're looking for a delicious and hearty meal, Italian baked ziti is a perfect choice. This comforting dish combines tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, and melty cheese, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. Here’s a simple guide on how to make Italian baked ziti at home.

Ingredients You'll Need

To create a mouth-watering baked ziti, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound of ziti pasta
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage
1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups of ricotta cheese
2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
¾ cup of grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ziti

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to combine the flavors.

3. Mix the Cheeses

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan. Mix well to create a cheese filling.

4. Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, combine the drained ziti pasta with the meat sauce, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.

Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the bottom of the baking dish. Next, layer the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Then, add the remaining pasta and sauce, spreading it evenly.

5. Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the assembled ziti. This will create a gooey and cheesy topping once baked.

6. Bake in the Oven

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once your Italian baked ziti is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the dish hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Perfect Italian Baked Ziti

For an even more amazing baked ziti, consider these tips:

Add vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a spicier kick, include red pepper flakes in the sauce.
Feel free to mix different types of cheese like provolone or fontina for a richer taste.

Italian baked ziti is a versatile dish that can easily be customized to suit your family's tastes. Enjoy this hearty meal any night of the week!