Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a beloved Italian-American classic, perfect for cozy family dinners or friendly gatherings. This hearty casserole brings together tender ziti pasta, a rich and savory meat sauce, and layers of creamy melted cheeses that create a comforting and indulgent meal. Its easy preparation and delicious flavors make it a staple for those who enjoy soul-warming Italian fare.
Save This baked ziti recipe blends simple yet flavorful ingredients for a dish that feels like a warm hug. The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage in the sauce adds depth and a robust taste, while the fresh parsley in the cheese mixture lends a hint of brightness. Whether you're serving it on a weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- Pasta
- 450 g (1 lb) ziti pasta
- Meat Sauce
- 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
- Cheese Mixture
- 425 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- For Assembly
- 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
Be sure not to overcook the pasta in the boiling water; cooking it al dente is key since it will continue cooking in the oven. When browning the meat, draining excess fat helps prevent a greasy sauce. Mixing the ricotta with egg and Parmesan ensures the cheese layer sets nicely during baking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage. You can also add sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the meat sauce for extra vegetables and flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve baked ziti with a crisp green salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Chianti or Sangiovese wine to complement the rich flavors.
Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a reliable and comforting dish that never fails to bring smiles to the table. With its balance of hearty meat, tender pasta, and creamy cheeses, it’s a timeless recipe to keep in your cooking repertoire.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What pasta type works best for this dish?
Ziti is ideal for holding sauce and cheese, but penne or rigatoni suffices if ziti isn't available.
- → Can I use other meats besides beef and sausage?
Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes for a lighter dish. Pork sausage adds traditional flavor.
- → How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Cover with foil while baking and ensure plenty of sauce. Removing foil for the last minutes ensures a golden topping.
- → What cheeses are recommended?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a creamy, melty texture and a rich, savory flavor blend.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool fully, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat covered in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
The dish can be assembled ahead, refrigerated, and baked just before serving for easy planning.
- → What wine pairs well?
Chianti or Sangiovese complement the savory tomato and meat flavors, enhancing the overall experience.