Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

ByAngela

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why comfort food like baked ziti brings people together? Studies show that meals shared with loved ones can enhance emotional well-being and create lasting memories. This cheesy baked ziti recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also fosters connection. With its rich flavors and gooey cheese, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. In this post, we’ll guide you through a delightful cheesy baked ziti recipe that’s easy to follow and sure to impress.

Ingredients List

Creating the perfect cheesy baked ziti starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Ziti Pasta: 1 pound (you can substitute with penne or rigatoni)
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Onion: 1 medium, diced
  • Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: 1 pound (feel free to use turkey or a plant-based alternative)
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces (canned for convenience)
  • Tomato Sauce: 15 ounces
  • Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (substitute with a dairy-free option if needed)
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
  • Fresh Basil: for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Pasta: Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier option.
  • Meat: Swap ground beef for lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Cheese: Use cashew cheese or tofu for a dairy-free alternative.

Timing

This cheesy baked ziti recipe requires about 90 minutes from start to finish, which is approximately 20% less time than many traditional baked pasta recipes. Here’s the breakdown:

  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Baking Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your baked ziti cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overdo it!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

Step 4: Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 5: Combine the Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Mix the Cheeses

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 7: Assemble the Ziti

In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, and then half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 8: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the ziti cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your cheesy baked ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g

Nutritional Insights

  • High in Protein: The combination of meat and cheese provides a hearty protein boost.
  • Balanced Meal: Pairing with a salad can increase fiber intake and add essential vitamins.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make your cheesy baked ziti a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

  • Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole grain or legume-based pasta for added fiber and nutrients.
  • Lean Meat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage.
  • Low-Fat Cheese: Choose low-fat cheese options to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
  • Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the sauce for extra vitamins and minerals.

Serving Suggestions

To make your cheesy baked ziti even more appealing, consider these serving ideas:

  • Pair with Garlic Bread: A side of warm garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.
  • Fresh Salad: Serve with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
  • Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, enhances the flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure the pasta is al dente; it will absorb sauce while baking.
  2. Not Layering Properly: Layering is key to ensuring every bite is flavorful. Don’t skip this step!
  3. Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opt for good quality cheese and tomatoes for the best flavor.
  4. Skipping the Resting Time: Allow the baked ziti to sit for a few minutes before serving to let it set.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your cheesy baked ziti, follow these storing tips:

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Baked ziti can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes.

Conclusion

In summary, this cheesy baked ziti recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a comforting meal that brings everyone together. We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I know when the baked ziti is done?

The ziti is done when the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

Is baked ziti gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. Make sure to check all other ingredients for gluten content.

Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

  • Ziti Pasta: 1 pound (you can substitute with penne or rigatoni)
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Onion: 1 medium, diced
  • Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: 1 pound (feel free to use turkey or a plant-based alternative)
  • Crushed Tomatoes: 28 ounces (canned for convenience)
  • Tomato Sauce: 15 ounces
  • Italian Seasoning: 2 teaspoons (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
  • Ricotta Cheese: 15 ounces
  • Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (substitute with a dairy-free option if needed)
  • Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
  • Fresh Basil: for garnish (optional)
  • Ingredient Substitutions
  • Pasta: Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used for a healthier option.
  • Meat: Swap ground beef for lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Cheese: Use cashew cheese or tofu for a dairy-free alternative.

Instructions

    Step 1: Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your baked ziti cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.

    Step 2: Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, so don’t overdo it!

    Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

    Step 4: Brown the Meat

    Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

    Step 5: Combine the Sauce

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

    Step 6: Mix the Cheeses

    In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

    Step 7: Assemble the Ziti

    In a large baking dish, layer half of the pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, and then half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining meat sauce on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

    Step 8: Bake

    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

    Step 9: Garnish and Serve

    Once out of the oven, let the ziti cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your cheesy baked ziti with a side salad or garlic bread!

© Angela
Category: DINNER