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Classic Comfort Baked Ziti
Introduction
“I’ve been making this recipe for so long, it’s a no-brainer for me now. Quick, easy, and always satisfying. A real crowd-pleaser every time I serve it.”
That’s exactly how this baked ziti feels—effortless, hearty, and beloved by family and friends. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t just feed the stomach but warms the soul. With bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly baked pasta, it’s a recipe that can become a tradition in your home just as it has in many kitchens around the world.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ziti or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can tomato sauce
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add ground beef/sausage and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Layer half the pasta, spoon over ricotta, sprinkle mozzarella, then cover with sauce. Repeat layers, ending with sauce and cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with garlic bread or salad.
Methods
- Layering Method: Building layers ensures even distribution of pasta, sauce, and cheese, giving every bite balance.
- Simmering Method: Allowing the sauce to simmer deepens flavor and melds spices into the tomato base.
- Baking Method: Baking locks everything together, letting the cheese melt into creamy layers that hold the pasta beautifully.
History
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish, a cousin of lasagna but simpler. It originated in Southern Italy where pasta al forno (“oven-baked pasta”) was common for gatherings. Immigrants carried the tradition to America, where it evolved into the cheesy, saucy casserole we love today. Often served at Sunday dinners, weddings, or family reunions, it has become a symbol of love, comfort, and togetherness.
Benefits
- Nutritional Balance: Provides protein from meat and cheese, carbohydrates from pasta, and lycopene-rich tomatoes for heart health.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Can be made ahead and baked later, perfect for busy families.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it ideal for gatherings.
- Adaptable: Can be made vegetarian, spicy, or even gluten-free.
Formation (Serving Ideas)
- Family Style: Place the baking dish at the center of the table for everyone to serve themselves.
- Individual Portions: Bake in small ramekins for personalized servings.
- Party Dish: Double the recipe for potlucks or celebrations.
Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 410
- Protein: 23 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Calcium: 180 mg
- Iron: 2.5 mg
Conclusion
Baked ziti is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition, a dish that gathers people around the table and fills them with comfort. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for celebrations.
Lovers
This recipe is for lovers of pasta, cheese, family meals, and heartwarming traditions. Lovers of comfort food will find joy here, as will anyone who believes that a meal shared is a memory made.
Would you like me to make a second variation (vegetarian version) so you’ll have two “lovers’ choices” in one recipe set?