Easy Baked Ziti: A Comfort Food Classic
If you’re looking for a warm and cozy meal, Easy Baked Ziti is the perfect dish to whip up. This comforting pasta bake combines all the flavors we love, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Why make this recipe?
Baked ziti is not only delicious but also an ideal dish for busy weeknights or meal prep. It combines pasta, cheese, and savory sauces into one delightful casserole. With simple ingredients and steps, you can create a meal that feels special while still being incredibly easy to pull together. Whether you want to impress your guests or just enjoy a hearty dinner, this recipe has you covered! 🍝
How to prepare Easy Baked Ziti
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta 🍝
- 2 cups alfredo sauce 🍶
- 1 lb ground beef 🍖
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce 🍅
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese 🧀
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese 🧀
- 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
- 1 teaspoon salt 🧂
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper 🔪
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce, salt, and pepper into the ground beef. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, alfredo sauce, and the meat mixture. Mix well.
- Transfer half of the ziti mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over it.
- Layer the rest of the ziti mixture on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy! 😋
How to serve Easy Baked Ziti
Serve your Easy Baked Ziti hot, straight out of the oven! A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch. Pair it with a simple green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. 🍽️
How to store Easy Baked Ziti
To store leftovers, allow the baked ziti to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy! ❄️
Tips for preparing Easy Baked Ziti
- For extra flavor, add some Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the meat mixture.
- You can use ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef for a different taste.
- Feel free to mix in some vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and flavor! 🥦
Variations
- Vegetarian Baked Ziti: Omit the ground beef and use a mixture of your favorite vegetables instead.
- Spicy Baked Ziti: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a little kick!
- Cheesy Baked Ziti: Increase the amount of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy delight! 🧀
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ziti and assemble it in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute regular ziti with your favorite gluten-free pasta for a delicious gluten-free version.
3. How do I know when the baked ziti is done?
It’s done when the cheese has melted and is bubbly, and it’s golden brown on top. You can also use a fork to check that the pasta is heated through.
Enjoy your delightful Easy Baked Ziti! 🍽️