There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy dish of baked ziti. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it has been a staple at family gatherings and potlucks for years. I remember the first time I made it for a group of friends; the aroma filled my kitchen, and the smiles on their faces as they took their first bites were priceless. This baked ziti recipe not only feeds a crowd but also freezes beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days. Let me share with you why this dish is so special and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this baked ziti recipe stands out from the rest:
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe is designed to serve a large group, making it ideal for family gatherings, parties, or meal prep for the week. With generous portions, everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Freezes Well: One of the best features of this baked ziti is its ability to freeze without losing flavor or texture. You can prepare it in advance, freeze it, and simply bake it when you need a quick meal.
- Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand, whether it’s adding vegetables, using different cheeses, or incorporating various proteins.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This baked ziti recipe serves approximately 8-10 people. The prep time is about 20 minutes, and the cook time is around 45 minutes.
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 jars (24 ounces each) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your baked ziti cooks evenly.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the Meat: Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Mix in the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Layer the rest of the ziti on top and finish with the remaining cheeses.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Consider adding fresh basil or parsley as a garnish before serving.
- Freezing Tips: To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Garlic bread for a crunchy side that complements the cheesy pasta.
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for gluten-free pasta.
How long can I freeze baked ziti? Baked ziti can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
What if I don’t have ricotta cheese? You can substitute with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This baked ziti recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a way to bring people together. The ease of preparation, the ability to feed a crowd, and the comforting flavors make it a must-try for any occasion.
This Baked Ziti Recipe Feeds a Crowd and Freezes Like a Dream
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic bread for a crunchy side
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Spread half of the ziti mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with half of the remaining mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese. Layer the rest of the ziti on top and finish with the remaining cheeses.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the baked ziti cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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