Go Back
Baked ziti is a beloved dish that has cemented its status as a quintessential comfort food in households across America and beyond. This Italian-American classic combines the heartiness of pasta with the rich, savory flavors of cheese and meat, making it a go-to option for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. Its popularity is not just due to its satisfying taste but also its ability to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of cozy meals shared with loved ones.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti recipe! This Italian-American classic combines ziti pasta, rich sauces, and a mouthwatering blend of cheeses that guarantees to impress. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a lively potluck, this dish is sure to evoke warmth and nostalgia. With step-by-step instructions, learn how to create layers of flavor using fresh ingredients and spices. Perfectly cheesy and delicious, it’s a must-try for pasta lovers!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (your choice for flavor)

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside so it can cool slightly.

      Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion, sautéing for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Brown the Meat: Incorporate the ground beef or Italian sausage into the skillet, using a spatula to break it apart. Cook until the meat is nicely browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 7-10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it before proceeding.

          Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to develop harmoniously.

            Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, the meat sauce you just prepared, and the ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is well coated with the creamy mixture.

              Layer the Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the ziti and sauce mixture across the bottom. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the first layer. Add the remaining ziti mixture on top, ensuring it's spread out. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and all the grated Parmesan for that cheesy goodness.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the dish out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. Just before serving, garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel, or spoon individual portions onto plates. Pair with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal experience!