There’s something about baked ziti that feels like a hug from the inside—a little cheesy, a bit saucy, and oh so comforting. Picture it: layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and hearty ground beef, all cozied up together in one dish. It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget about the world outside—like when your phone dies, and you’re left with just your thoughts and a good plate of food.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat. Add garlic and onion, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
- Stir in your preferred marinara sauce, incorporating any additional spices like oregano and basil if desired. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a portion of the mozzarella cheese. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, followed by half of the meat sauce, and then half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 jar (about 24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta for baked ziti?
- Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or penne, which also hold the sauce well and provide a delightful texture.
- What can I add to enhance the flavor of the sauce?
- Many people enjoy adding herbs such as oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can also include ingredients like garlic, fresh basil, or even Italian sausage for additional depth of flavor.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, you can omit the meat and add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also use a meatless sauce or incorporate plant-based protein alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- How can I prevent my baked ziti from becoming dry?
- To ensure your baked ziti remains moist, make sure to use enough sauce and cover the dish with foil while baking. Removing the foil towards the end of baking can help achieve a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
- Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?
- Definitely! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a day or two before baking. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or when entertaining guests.
Tips
- Enhance the flavor of your baked ziti by incorporating your preferred herbs, such as oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a healthier twist, consider adding frozen spinach to the cheese and egg mixture before layering it with the sauce.
- If you’re using jarred marinara sauce, try adding dried herbs or blending the sauce to achieve a smoother texture.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes, like rigatoni, and add ingredients like fresh basil or Italian sausage to create a more robust and flavorful dish.
Equipment
- Baking dish (e.g., a 9×13-inch casserole dish)
- Cheese grater (for grating mozzarella or Parmesan cheese)
- Pasta strainer or colander
- Large sauté pan or skillet (for browning meat if included)