Best Ever Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked ziti is a timeless Italian dish that combines the heartiness of pasta with the richness of cheese and savory meats, making it the perfect comfort food. With this Best Ever Baked Ziti recipe, you’ll enjoy a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. The combination of ziti pasta, savory ground beef (or sausage), tangy marinara sauce, and plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

What makes this version the “best ever” is the balance of bold, flavorful ingredients like garlic powder and Italian seasoning, paired with fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess. Topped with a golden, bubbly cheese crust, this baked ziti is sure to be a hit for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this comforting dish will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

Get ready to dive into this easy, cheesy, and delicious baked ziti recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Best Ever Baked Ziti recipe stands out. First, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. The combination of ground beef or sausage with marinara sauce and diced tomatoes creates a rich, flavorful base, while the cheeses melt together perfectly for that gooey, comforting texture we all crave.

This dish is perfect for large family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can use ground beef, sausage, or even make it vegetarian by swapping in some hearty vegetables. The inclusion of fresh mozzarella makes this ziti especially decadent and indulgent. It’s also a great dish to serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

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Ingredients

For the Baked Ziti:

• Ziti pasta
• Ground beef or ground sausage
• Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Canned diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh mozzarella cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Variations

This Best Ever Baked Ziti recipe is highly versatile and can be tailored to fit your personal tastes or dietary needs:

• Meat Variations: You can use ground beef, ground sausage, or a combination of both for a more flavorful dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap out the meat for sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also use plant-based sausage for added protein.
• Cheese Options: While this recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, gouda, or ricotta for a unique twist on the classic.
• Spicy Twist: If you enjoy some heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef or regular sausage.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ziti

Start by cooking the ziti pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices). Add the marinara sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 3: Mix the Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Stir to ensure the pasta is well coated.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the pasta mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, fresh mozzarella (sliced), and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let the baked ziti sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook while baking, make sure to cook it al dente (slightly firm) so that it doesn’t become too soft during baking.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Fresh mozzarella and good-quality Parmesan make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. If possible, use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier result.
• Layer for Maximum Cheese: Be sure to layer the cheeses throughout the pasta and sauce. This will ensure every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
• Customizing the Meat: If you’re using Italian sausage, remove the casing before cooking for better flavor distribution in the sauce.

How to Serve

This Best Ever Baked Ziti is a filling meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes:

• Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping into the rich sauce
• A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts
• Sautéed spinach or kale for a healthy side

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you can microwave individual portions or heat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Freezing

Baked ziti freezes wonderfully. Let the dish cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes, or until the center is hot and bubbly.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven rather than the microwave to maintain the texture of the cheese. If reheating in the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use penne instead of ziti?

Yes, you can easily swap ziti with penne or any other short pasta.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the meat with sautéed vegetables, tofu, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.

3. Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes of cook time if needed.

4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, store-bought marinara works perfectly in this recipe, but homemade marinara can add an extra layer of flavor.

5. Can I freeze baked ziti?

Yes, baked ziti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil for up to 3 months.

6. Can I make baked ziti without meat?

Yes, you can make this dish without meat by substituting the ground beef or sausage with vegetables or plant-based protein.

7. Can I use ricotta cheese in this recipe?

Yes, ricotta cheese can be added to give the baked ziti a creamier texture, or you can use it to replace some of the mozzarella cheese.

8. Can I add more cheese to the top?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra mozzarella or even a bit of Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy finish.

9. How do I store leftover baked ziti?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

10. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be added to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Best Ever Baked Ziti recipe is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its layers of rich marinara sauce, savory ground beef or sausage, and melty mozzarella create a flavor-packed meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or meal prep for the week, this baked ziti will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

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