Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a heartwarming Italian-American classic that brings the family together. This comforting casserole features tender ziti pasta swimming in a rich and savory meat sauce, crowned with layers of gooey melted cheeses that golden beautifully in the oven. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, it's the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Save Beyond the delicious layers and warm cheese, this dish also offers versatility and ease. From the stovetop to the oven, each step is designed for efficiency without compromising flavor, making it a dependable go-to recipe every season.
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
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
Using good-quality Italian sausage and fresh herbs will elevate the flavor of the meat sauce. Be careful not to overcook the pasta before layering, as it will finish cooking in the oven. For an extra creamy texture, make sure the ricotta cheese mixture is well combined and evenly distributed.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage. Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for added vegetables. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina to change up the flavor profile.
Serviervorschläge
Serve baked ziti hot from the oven alongside a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread. It pairs beautifully with robust red wines such as Chianti or Sangiovese, making it an ideal meal for both casual and special occasions.
Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the warmth of Italian-American home cooking to your table. Whether enjoyed as a family weeknight dinner or shared at a gathering with friends, this classic dish promises satisfaction in every cheesy, saucy bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Ziti pasta is preferred due to its tubular shape, which holds layers of sauce and cheese well during baking.
- → Can I substitute the meat used in the sauce?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef and sausage for a lighter version with a similar texture.
- → How can I make the sauce more flavorful?
Simmer the tomato sauce with garlic, onion, oregano, basil, and a hint of red pepper flakes to deepen its taste.
- → What cheeses are recommended for the layering?
A mixture of ricotta, grated Parmesan, and shredded mozzarella creates a creamy and gooey texture essential to the dish.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this bake?
Yes, sautéed spinach or mushrooms can be incorporated into the layers for added texture and nutrition.
- → How long should the dish rest after baking?
Allow the baked ziti to rest for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and make serving easier.