Description
This classic Baked Ziti recipe features tender pasta baked in a rich, savory meat sauce combined with creamy ricotta, fresh basil, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly layered and baked until bubbly and golden, this comforting Italian-American casserole serves as a hearty main dish that’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne, or gluten-free pasta)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cups marinara sauce
Cheese & Herbs
- 15 ounces fresh ricotta cheese
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
- 12 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make Meat Sauce: In a large pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is no longer pink and the onions are softened. Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, sautéing for about 1 minute to release the flavors. Stir in the marinara sauce, then reduce heat slightly and simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Combine Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together the remaining meat sauce, chopped basil, ricotta cheese, and the cooked pasta, gently stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer and Bake: Spoon half the pasta mixture into the baking dish over the sauce. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining pasta mixture and cheeses. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly. For a golden top, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving warm. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy baked pasta as a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ziti pasta with penne or any other tubular pasta, including gluten-free options, to suit dietary needs.
- Using beef with 85% lean ensures good flavor while keeping some fat for richness; you may drain excess fat if preferred.
- Broiling at the end is optional but helps give the cheese a nice golden crust.
- Fresh basil adds a lovely aromatic flavor; dried basil can be used in a pinch but fresh is recommended.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
