The Joy of Classic Baked Ziti
My Favorite is Classic Baked Ziti and As I prepared to host my first big family gathering in my new home, I knew I needed a dish that would make everyone feel at ease and welcomed. That’s when I decided to make my Classic Baked Ziti. This dish is always a hit, and it’s a great way to bring a taste of comfort to any table. The aroma of ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese filling the kitchen is like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s a meal that invites everyone to gather around and share in something delicious.
A Family Tradition
Growing up, my family had a few go-to recipes that always made special occasions memorable. One of those was baked ziti. My mom would make it for every holiday, birthday, or family reunion, and it was always the star of the meal. I remember watching her layer the pasta and sauce with so much care, and it felt like magic as the cheese melted into gooey perfection. When it was my turn to carry on this tradition, I wanted to make sure my baked ziti honored those cherished memories while adding my own touch.
Cooking with Love
Cooking the Classic Baked Ziti is a bit like reliving those special family moments. I start by boiling the ziti pasta, the smell of it cooking bringing back memories of those bustling family kitchens. Then I sauté the onions and brown the ground beef, mixing in the marinara sauce and letting it simmer. The entire process feels soothing, almost like a ritual. Layering the pasta, cheese, and sauce in the baking dish reminds me of how much care and love went into those family meals. It’s a simple recipe, but the results are always incredible.
A Dish to Remember
When the baked ziti comes out of the oven, it’s always a sight to behold. The cheese is golden and bubbly, and the layers of pasta and sauce are perfectly melded together. Seeing everyone gather around the table, eagerly waiting for their serving, makes all the effort worth it. The Classic Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a way to create new memories while honoring the old ones. Every bite is a reminder of the love and warmth shared with family, making it a dish that’s truly special.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Classic Baked Ziti
- Use a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce or homemade for the best flavor. A good sauce makes a big difference in taste.
- Ensure even layering of ingredients to avoid a dry top. Spread the sour cream and cheese layers evenly for consistent flavor throughout the dish.
- For extra nutrition, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat sauce. Sauté them with the onions for added flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or fontina for varied flavors. Just make sure they melt well.
- You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Baked ziti can be frozen for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.
Classic Baked Ziti
Course: Main CourseCuisine: American, ItalianDifficulty: Medium
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
20
minutes
Calories
578
kcal
Total time
55
minutes
This Classic Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese layers. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that even novice cooks can master. Get ready to impress your guests with this comforting and delicious baked ziti!
Ingredients
- Pasta and Sauce
1 pound ziti pasta
2 (26-ounce) jars marinara sauce
- Meat and Vegetables
1 medium onion finely chopped
1 pound lean ground beef
- Cheeses
6 ounces sliced provolone cheese
1 1/2 cups sour cream
6 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
- Cooking Pasta – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Preparing Meat Sauce – In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the ground beef and cook until browned (about 7-10 minutes). Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Layering Ingredients – In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti pasta. Top with slices of provolone cheese and spread sour cream evenly over the cheese. Pour half of the meat sauce over the sour cream layer. Add the remaining ziti pasta on top.
- Baking – Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- nonstick pan
- baking sheet
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 578kcal
- Carbohydrates: 58.4g
- Protein: 27.9g
- Fat: 25.3g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 71mg
- Sodium: 914mg
- Potassium: 500mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Vitamin A: 15IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 20mg
FAQ-Classic Baked Ziti
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with other tubular pastas like penne or rigatoni. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the ground beef and add vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also use a meat substitute if desired.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
You can replace sour cream with ricotta cheese for a richer texture, or use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to three months.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the baked ziti a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just add about 10 minutes to the baking time if baking from the refrigerator.
