When it comes to baked ziti, you've got a range of flavors and ingredients at your fingertips, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. You might find yourself drawn to the classic version, but don't overlook the spinach and ricotta twist or the hearty meat lover's option that can satisfy even the hungriest appetites. If you're keen on something lighter, consider the veggie-packed or pesto variations that offer a revitalizing take. Each recipe brings something unique to the table, and you'll want to discover which one suits your taste best.
Classic Baked Ziti
Classic baked ziti is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
This easy-to-make recipe is sure to please everyone at the table, as it layers flavors and textures that meld beautifully while baking in the oven. Whether served with a side salad or garlic bread, classic baked ziti is a timeless favorite that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, then stir in the garlic, crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce.
You can also substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option. If you have leftovers, baked ziti reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Feel free to customize your baked ziti by adding your favorite ingredients like spinach, olives, or different types of cheese to suit your taste!
Spinach and Ricotta Baked Ziti
Spinach and Ricotta Baked Ziti is a delightful twist on the classic Italian-American dish, combining the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the nutritious benefits of spinach. This comforting meal is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
The layers of ziti pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a cheesy spinach filling create a deliciously satisfying casserole that's sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom, then add half of the cooked ziti. Spoon half of the ricotta and spinach mixture over the pasta, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, and finish with the rest of the marinara sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider sautéing some minced garlic and onions in olive oil before mixing them into the ricotta and spinach filling.
You can also customize this recipe by adding cooked ground meat, such as Italian sausage or turkey, for a heartier option.
If you're looking to reduce calories, you can substitute part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy your delicious Spinach and Ricotta Baked Ziti!
Meat Lover's Baked Ziti
If you're a meat lover, this Meat Lover's Baked Ziti recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings! Combining a hearty mix of ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni with gooey cheeses and a rich marinara sauce, this dish is a comforting classic that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It's easy to prepare and will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully cooked. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the marinara sauce, pepperoni, and Italian seasoning; let it simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese, mixing well. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and bell peppers to the meat mixture. You can also customize the type of meats you use; try adding cooked bacon or ham for an additional twist.
If you prefer a slightly crispy topping, broil the baked ziti for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
Enjoy your delicious Meat Lover's Baked Ziti!
Veggie-Packed Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty dish, and when you add a variety of vegetables, it transforms into a nutritious, veggie-packed meal that everyone will love. This recipe features a mix of colorful vegetables, ricotta, mozzarella, and ziti pasta, all topped with a savory marinara sauce. It's perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd, and the best part is that it can be customized with your favorite veggies!
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
To prepare the Veggie-Packed Baked Ziti, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Then, stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, and spinach, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed vegetables, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh basil if desired.
For the best results, consider roasting your vegetables beforehand to improve their flavors. Feel free to mix and match veggies based on what you have on hand or what's in season.
If you prefer a bit more spice, adding crushed red pepper flakes can give your dish a nice kick. This baked ziti can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious veggie-packed meal!
Pesto Baked Ziti
Pesto Baked Ziti is a delightful twist on the classic baked pasta dish, combining the rich flavors of basil pesto with gooey cheese and hearty ziti pasta. This dish isn't only easy to prepare but also offers a comforting meal that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
The vibrant green pesto adds a fresh and aromatic touch, making it a standout option for pasta lovers. With minimal prep time and a satisfying outcome, you'll find yourself making this dish time and again.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 2 cups basil pesto
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and return it to the pot.
Stir in the basil pesto, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Gently fold in the cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers to the pasta mixture.
You can also experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto, to customize the dish to your taste.
If you want a crispier top, broil the baked ziti for a few minutes at the end, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave. Enjoy your delicious Pesto Baked Ziti!