Quick Baked Ziti Recipe For Busy Weeknights

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its cheesy goodness, hearty pasta, and rich tomato sauce, this recipe is perfect for families and gatherings. Even better, it’s an easy baked ziti that requires minimal effort, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, this baked ziti recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients for Baked Ziti

To prepare a delicious baked ziti that serves approximately 6 to 8 people, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound ziti pasta
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
3 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating a perfect baked ziti is straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to achieve a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the ziti will bake evenly and develop a nice golden crust on top.
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) into the skillet with the cooked meat. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ziti pasta with the meat sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.
To assemble the baked ziti, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, layer half of the pasta and meat mixture, followed by spooning half of the ricotta mixture over the top. Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta layer.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta mixture and ricotta, finishing with the remaining meat sauce on top. Finally, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the entire dish.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once baked, remove the ziti from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

To enhance your baked ziti experience, consider the following tips that ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

For added flavor, use a combination of ground meats such as beef and Italian sausage. The sausage adds a delicious seasoning and richness to the sauce.
Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meat sauce for extra nutrition and texture.
For a creamier texture, mix in some sour cream or additional ricotta cheese with the ricotta mixture.
Letting the baked ziti rest after baking allows for easier serving and enhances the flavors.
Experiment with different cheeses. For example, adding provolone or gouda can introduce a unique flavor profile.
Feel free to adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes, or by using a spicy marinara sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Baked ziti is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. It can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty main dish or paired with a simple side salad to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, making for an even more satisfying meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a nutritious boost.

For storage, baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If you want to prepare baked ziti ahead of time, consider assembling the dish and storing it uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.

Variations of Baked Ziti

While the classic baked ziti recipe is beloved, there are many delicious variations to explore. Here are a few ideas to inspire your cooking:

Vegetarian baked ziti can be made by omitting the meat and adding a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives for additional protein.
For a creamy twist, try making a baked ziti with Alfredo sauce instead of marinara. This variation combines the richness of the cheese with a decadent creamy sauce.
For a spicy kick, add jalapeños or use spicy sausage in the meat sauce. You can also mix in some pepper jack cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of baked ziti is a fulfilling combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. While nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used, a standard serving typically contains around 400-600 calories. It also provides a good source of calcium from the cheese and protein from the meat. For those looking to make it a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables.

In conclusion, baked ziti is not only a comforting meal but also a versatile one that allows for creativity in the kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, this dish is sure to please. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, baked ziti is an excellent option for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weeks ahead.