Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a heartwarming Italian-American classic that brings comfort to any dinner table. This layered casserole combines tender ziti pasta with a richly seasoned meat sauce and a luscious blend of cheeses, creating a dish that's perfect for family meals or gathering with friends. The bubbling mozzarella and creamy ricotta meld beautifully with savory ground beef and Italian sausage, delivering every bite full of indulgent flavor and warmth.
Save This baked ziti recipe balances simplicity and robust flavor. With a quick meat sauce simmered to deepen the tomatoes and spices, combined with a creamy ricotta and egg mixture, the dish bakes to golden bubbly perfection. It’s a satisfying centerpiece that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and promises a delicious, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 450 g (1 lb) ziti pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 400 g (14 oz) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 425 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 250 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- 3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- 4. Add ground beef and sausage. Cook, breaking up meat, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- 5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- 6. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until well combined.
- 7. In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
- 8. Repeat layers: remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- 9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- 10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a smoother sauce, consider blending the crushed tomatoes before adding. Use fresh herbs if available for enhanced flavor. Be careful not to overcook the pasta before layering to avoid a mushy casserole. Resting the dish after baking helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables and nutritional boost. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, to add depth. For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes or add chopped fresh chili.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty baked ziti with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with robust Italian wines like Chianti or Sangiovese. Leftovers make excellent next-day lunches or dinners, simply reheated with a splash of water or sauce to keep pasta moist.
Save With its inviting layers and crowd-pleasing flavors, baked ziti with meat sauce is a true comfort food classic. This dish not only satisfies with every bite but also brings warmth and joy to the table, making any occasion feel like a special family gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Ziti pasta holds up well during baking and perfectly absorbs the sauce, making it ideal for this layered casserole.
- → Can I substitute the meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef and Italian sausage for a lighter variation.
- → How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Layering sauce generously and covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps retain moisture.
- → What cheeses are included in the layering?
Ricotta cheese mixed with egg and Parmesan is layered with shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan on top.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed spinach or mushrooms can be incorporated into the layers to enhance flavors and add nutrition.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Chianti or Sangiovese wines complement the rich tomato and meat flavors beautifully.