Baked Ziti Recipe

Watch the video below for the recipe.

Baked ziti is a warm, comforting dish. I remember making it for the first time. The smell filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of family dinners.

The cheesy casserole with pasta is a favorite. It’s perfect for a weeknight or a party. The video below will show you how to make it.

This Baked Ziti Recipe is perfect for families and gatherings. It starts with ziti pasta cooked just right. Then a tasty meat sauce is added. It’s a mix of ground beef and onion with spaghetti sauce.

Next comes the layering part. Provolone, sour cream, and lots of cheese go in. The dish is baked until the cheese is golden and bubbly. It makes enough to serve 10 people. So it’s great for sharing at parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making a perfect Baked Ziti Recipe starts with the right baked pasta ingredients. Now, we’ll look at what you need to make a delicious dish.

First, get a pound of ziti pasta. It’s great because it holds sauce and cheese well. You also need three cheeses for that yummy texture: provolone cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

For the tasty meat part, cook a pound of lean ground beef and an onion. Then, mix in two jars of spaghetti sauce. Let it sit to make it even more delicious.

Add some sour cream for a creamy twist. It balances the rich cheese with a tangy taste.

You can also add garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes. They improve the flavor a lot.

At the end, top it with basil and parsley for a fresh look and great taste. This makes your dish look and taste wonderful.

Want a vegetarian twist? Use ricotta cheese instead of beef. Also, add some fresh spinach. A good marinara sauce, like Rao’s, works great too if you’re busy.

Using these main baked pasta ingredients, you can make a lovely Baked Ziti. People will love how it looks and tastes.

How to Make Baked Ziti

To make a delicious Baked Ziti, start with some easy steps. Cook one pound of ziti pasta until it’s just right, or al dente. Then, brown some lean ground beef and onions. Add your favorite spaghetti sauce and let it simmer for a great taste.

Now, heat your oven to 350 degrees F. In a buttered baking dish, make layers. Put half of the pasta, then sliced provolone. After that, add sour cream for a creamy taste. Put half the meat sauce on top. Add the rest of the pasta, mozzarella, and the rest of the sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Bake until the cheese is golden, usually 20-25 minutes. It’s important to watch the time so the pasta is just right. You can make a vegetarian version by adding a ricotta mix and smoked mozzarella on top. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty Baked Ziti.

Following these steps makes cooking Baked Ziti fun and rewarding. Each part, from cooking the pasta to the layers, makes a dish that everyone will love. It’s great for dinner with your family or friends.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in a classic baked ziti recipe?

For a classic baked ziti, you need dry ziti pasta, cheeses like provolone, mozzarella, and Parmesan, lean ground beef, spaghetti sauce, onion, and sour cream. These make a tasty and cheesy casserole great for family nights.

How do I prepare the meat sauce for the ziti?

First, brown lean ground beef with onion in a skillet until it’s cooked. Then, mix in two jars of spaghetti sauce. Let it simmer. This will make a delicious meat sauce for your ziti.

What is the best way to layer the baked ziti?

Start with a buttered baking dish, 9×13 inches. Put in half of the cooked pasta, then provolone, sour cream, and the sauce. Layer the rest of the pasta. Add mozzarella, more sauce, and Parmesan on top.

How long do I bake ziti in the oven?

Set your oven to 350 degrees F. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 25-30 minutes. Make sure the pasta is still firm.

Can I make a vegetarian version of baked ziti?

Yes, you can. Use a mix of ricotta, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and spinach instead of beef. For cheeses, try smoked mozzarella and pecorino (or Parmesan). Bake until golden at 425 degrees F.

What cheese substitutions can I make for my ziti?

Swap provolone with cheddar or gouda. Ricotta works as a nice sour cream substitute. Choose smoked mozzarella for a different twist. Pecorino can stand in for Parmesan.

Can I add extra ingredients to the baked ziti?

Yes, you can. Add flavors like garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Top with basil and parsley for more taste and a pretty look.

How many servings does this baked ziti recipe yield?

It makes enough for a 9×13-inch dish, serving up to 10 people. This is great for parties, potlucks, or a big family meal.

Source Links

• https://www.loveandlemons.com/baked-ziti/
• https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/11758/baked-ziti-i/
• https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/baked-ziti-with-sausage.html