Baked Ziti Recipe – Simple Easy Meals

Before we dive into the delicious realm of baked ziti, let’s talk about what you can enjoy alongside this hot dish. 

Baked ziti is not just a standalone star; it stands tall with some wonderful accompaniments:

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong here. A loaf, crusty and warm, sliced thick, smeared with garlic butter, and toasted to perfection will make your meal shine like a bright star.

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a zesty homemade dressing bring vibrant balance to the rich flavors of baked ziti.

Roasted Vegetables: Think about colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli drizzled with olive oil, perfectly roasted until golden. They add a nutritious touch to your comfort food feast.

Ready to become the most popular host at your next gathering? Let’s dive into this baked ziti recipe that has won over many hearts, including mine!

What is Baked Ziti?

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American casserole that features ziti pasta, typically baked with a flavorful meat sauce and gooey cheese. Think of it as a comforting embrace in a dish, where every bite sings with flavor. 

What originally began as a way to use leftover spaghetti has now evolved into a beloved staple in homes across the country.

Why This Recipe Works

Here’s why I’m confident you’ll love this baked ziti recipe:

1. Unforgettable Flavor: The star of this dish is its homemade meat sauce. Using ground Italian sausage combined with crushed tomatoes and fresh herbs creates a sauce bursting with taste and richness.

 The balance of spices draws you in, spoonful after spoonful.

2. Creamy Texture: Adding heavy cream transforms the sauce. It makes the baked ziti extra creamy. Think silky smoothness that coats every piece of pasta.

3. Cheese, Cheese, Cheese: We all know cheese makes everything better! In this dish, two types of cheese work wonders. The mozzarella melts beautifully, while the Pecorino Romano adds a slightly salty tang, enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

4. Easy to Make: Honestly, you don’t need to be a culinary whiz to pull this off. The steps are straightforward, and you can easily prep everything in advance. Perfect if you’re juggling a busy schedule.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
  
• 1½ lbs ground Italian sausage (choose spicy or sweet, or sausage removed from casings)
  
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  
• 1½ teaspoons granulated sugar
  
• ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
  
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  
• 8 oz whole milk shredded mozzarella (approximately 2 cups)
  
• ⅓ cup plus 3 tablespoons grated Pecorino Romano cheese, divided
  
• ⅓ cup fresh chopped basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
  
• 1 lb ziti pasta
  

With these ingredients, you’re bound for a culinary success.

How To Make This Baked Ziti Recipe

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! Follow these steps to create your perfect baked ziti.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Yes, the oven is where magic happens! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your ziti bakes evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil salted water in a large pot. Add the ziti pasta and cook it for about 2 minutes less than package instructions. You want it al dente because it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and brown it for about 30 seconds.

Next, crumble in the ground Italian sausage, cooking until browned. This adds a complex flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, and red chili flakes. Stir and let this simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese

Once your sauce has simmered, stir in the heavy cream. Let it combine fully, creating a rich texture. Add the shredded mozzarella and ⅓ cup of Pecorino Romano cheese, mixing until melted.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti and the sauce. Mix until every piece of pasta gets drenched in that creamy, meaty goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Ziti

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional mozzarella and the remaining 3 tablespoons of Pecorino Romano.

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Let it Rest

This is one of the hardest steps! Once it’s out of the oven, allow the baked ziti to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps everything set and makes serving easier.

Tips & Tricks

Here are some seasoned insights for making your baked ziti even better:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs over dried. Fresh basil adds vibrant flavor to this dish.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, you’re finishing the cooking in the oven. A little bite is perfect!

Experiment with Meats: If sausage isn’t your jam, consider ground beef, turkey, or even veggies for a meatless option.

Add Vegetables: For a healthier touch, stir in chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms before baking.

Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day early. Just assemble it and refrigerate before baking.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: Approximately 650 per serving.
  
• Protein: 35g
  
• Total Fat: 35g
  
• Carbohydrates: 70g
  
• Fiber: 3g
  

(Nutrition information may vary based on brands and specifics.)

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze individual portions. Wrap tightly and store; it keeps well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

What Sides Would Complement Baked Ziti Recipe?

To round out your meal, consider these sides:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and tied together with a hint of garlic make these an irresistible pairing. Not too difficult to whip up!

2. Caprese Salad: Bright, fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction. This refreshing salad adds a lovely contrast to the baked ziti.

3. Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Creamy and cheesy, a baked dip served with crusty bread will delight your guests and create an appetizer before the main course.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Sometimes, improvisation becomes necessary. Here’s how to substitute:

1. Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you want a leaner meat option, these can stand in for Italian sausage.

2. Canned Tomatoes: If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, diced or whole canned tomatoes can work. Just mash them up a bit before adding to your sauce.

3. Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: These can replace heavy cream if necessary. Add water or milk to thin the mixture down.

4. Any Pasta Shape: Not just ziti! Use penne, rigatoni, or even whatever pasta you have on hand. The flavor will remain just as delightful!

Conclusion

Who knew a simple dish could evoke so many pleasant memories? Baked ziti has a special way of bringing people together, evoking comfort, and celebrating shared meals. With its hearty ingredients and bubbly cheese, it has become a favorite in my home.

Now you have a detailed roadmap to create your own baked ziti adventure! Embrace every step of cooking, enjoy the aromatic scents wafting through your kitchen, and anticipate the smiles from your family and friends. Trust me, they’ll be coming back for seconds. Recipe and love are meant to be shared.

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