Classic Baked Ziti – Cheesy, Comforting, and Irresistible

Ingredients
    Pasta & Cheese:
  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Sauce & Meat:
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 4 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • Seasoning:
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1
    1- Cook the pasta:

    Boil ziti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 2
    2- Prepare the sauce:

    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

    • Add onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

    • Add ground beef or sausage, cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

    • Stir in marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

  3. 3
    3- Assemble the ziti:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

    • In a 9x13 baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.

    • Layer half of the pasta, then half of the ricotta, half of the sauce, and 1 cup mozzarella.

    • Repeat layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta, sauce, and mozzarella.

    • Sprinkle Parmesan on top.

  4. 4
    4- Bake:Baked Ziti in a caserol

    Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

  5. 5
    5- Serve:

    Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Serving Size 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 460kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 19g30%
Saturated Fat 9g45%
Cholesterol 55mg19%
Sodium 780mg33%
Potassium 540mg16%
Total Carbohydrate 45g15%
Dietary Fiber 4g16%
Sugars 7g
Protein 26g52%
Magnesium 35 mg
Net Carb 41g

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

  • Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente is key for the best texture.
  • Use whole-milk cheeses: This adds a creamy, rich flavor to your dish.
  • Rest before serving: Allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking so the layers set.
  • Make it ahead: Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

These tips ensure that every bite of your Italian baked ziti will taste just like it came from an Italian kitchen.

Read it online: https://simplydeliciousbites.com/recipe/classic-baked-ziti-cheesy-comforting-and-irresistible/

Thank you for stopping by :) :)