Baked Ziti: A Hearty Italian Classic
When it comes to comforting Italian dishes, few can rival the charm and satisfaction of a well-prepared Baked Ziti. Drawing inspiration from my grandmother’s cherished recipe, this delightful meal can be made effortlessly with either your favorite jarred sauce or a homemade version that infuses your kitchen with aromatic bliss. The ultimate goal here is to create a dish that is both delicious and simple to prepare, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner on a chilly evening. Serve it alongside a crisp tossed salad and a warm loaf of fresh Italian bread to elevate the dining experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | ¼ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | ¾ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 29 ounces |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 418.4 |
| Total Fat | 18.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 80.8 mg |
| Sodium | 721.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugars | 7.1 g |
| Protein | 23.8 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Recipe Category
- Cheese
- Meat
- European
- Cooking Time: Under 60 Minutes
- Oven Dishes
Instructions
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Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, allowing any excess water to evaporate.
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Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. After browning, drain any excess fat and remove the skillet from the heat.
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Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In the skillet with the browned beef, add the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a rich and flavorful filling.
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Combine Pasta and Filling: Gently fold the cooked ziti into the ricotta and beef mixture, tossing carefully to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious filling.
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Assemble the Dish: Spoon the ziti mixture into a 13×9-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Pour the remaining pasta sauce over the top, allowing it to seep into the ziti for extra moisture and flavor.
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Add Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce-covered pasta, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that will melt beautifully as it bakes.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the baking pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake, uncovered, for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the entire dish is heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baked ziti from the oven, allowing it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh tossed salad and slices of crusty Italian bread for a truly delightful meal that everyone will love.
With a rating of 5 stars from 13 reviews, this Baked Ziti is sure to impress both family and friends alike, bringing a taste of Italy straight to your dining table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a surefire way to create lasting memories around the dinner table. Dive into this deliciously cheesy, meaty goodness and savor every bite of this classic Italian comfort food.
