Baked Ziti Cheesy Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Baked Ziti Cheesy Pasta: Just the name conjures up images of bubbling cheese, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, doesn’t it? Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate!

Baked ziti, a cornerstone of Italian-American cuisine, has roots that trace back to the Southern Italian tradition of baked pasta dishes. While the exact origins are debated, it’s clear that this dish evolved as Italian immigrants adapted their culinary heritage to the ingredients available in their new home. It quickly became a staple at family gatherings and potlucks, a symbol of abundance and shared joy.

What makes baked ziti cheesy pasta so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The slightly al dente ziti pasta provides a satisfying bite, while the creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses melt together into a gooey, decadent blanket. The tangy tomato sauce adds a vibrant counterpoint, creating a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. So, let’s dive into this classic recipe and create a dish that will bring smiles to your table!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Meat Sauce:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this baked ziti – the meat sauce! This is where all the delicious flavors come together, so take your time and enjoy the process.

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, crumble the Italian sausage and cook over medium-high heat until browned. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy baked ziti!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the sausage and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. I usually give it a good stir every 10-15 minutes.

Preparing the Cheese Mixture:

While the sauce is simmering away, let’s get the cheese mixture ready. This is what makes the baked ziti so creamy and decadent!

1. Combine the Ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. The egg helps bind the ricotta and gives it a nice texture when baked.

Cooking the Pasta:

Now, let’s cook the ziti pasta. It’s important to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

1. Cook the Ziti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by about 2 minutes. You want the pasta to be slightly undercooked.
2. Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta well and set aside.

Assembling the Baked Ziti:

Alright, the moment we’ve been waiting for – assembling the baked ziti! This is where all the components come together to create a masterpiece.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Make sure every piece of ziti is covered in that delicious sauce!
3. Layer in Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
4. Add Ricotta Layer: Spoon half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the sauce layer. Spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle with Mozzarella: Sprinkle one cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
6. Add Remaining Pasta: Pour the remaining pasta and sauce mixture over the mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with Ricotta and Mozzarella: Spoon the remaining ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta. Then, sprinkle the remaining one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Baking the Ziti:

Almost there! Now it’s time to bake the ziti until it’s bubbly and golden brown.

1. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
3. Rest: Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to cut.

Serving:

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your homemade baked ziti! This dish is perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests.

1. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
2. Serve: Serve hot and enjoy! This baked ziti is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side salad and some garlic bread.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up:

Add more red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier kick.

Vegetarian Option:

Omit the sausage and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini to the sauce.

Different Cheeses:

Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor.

Make Ahead:

Assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Freezing:

Baked ziti can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Using Different Pasta:

While ziti is the classic choice, you can also use penne, rigatoni, or any other tube-shaped pasta.

Adding Wine:

For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of red wine to the sauce while it’s simmering.

Fresh Herbs:

Use fresh oregano and basil instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Add them towards the end of the simmering process.

Garlic Bread Crumbs:

Top the baked ziti with garlic bread crumbs for added texture and flavor. Mix bread crumbs with melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle over the top before baking.

Creamy Sauce:

Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a creamier texture.

Adding Vegetables to the Ricotta:

Mix in some chopped spinach or other cooked vegetables into the ricotta mixture for added nutrients and flavor.

Using Different Types of Sausage:

Experiment with different types of Italian sausage, such as sweet or hot, to customize the flavor.

Broiling for Extra Color:

For an extra golden brown top, broil the baked ziti for a minute or two after baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving with a Salad:

Serve the baked ziti with a fresh green salad or a Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Making Individual Portions:

Assemble the baked ziti in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Adding Meatballs:

Add cooked meatballs to the sauce for a heartier dish.

Using Jarred Sauce:

If you’re short on time, you can use a good quality jarred marinara sauce as a base and add the sausage and other ingredients.

Adjusting the Salt:

Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that the cheese will also add saltiness to the dish.

Preventing Sticking:

To prevent the pasta from sticking to the baking dish, grease the dish well with butter or cooking spray before adding the pasta mixture.

Conclusion:

This Baked Ziti Cheesy Pasta isn’t just another pasta bake; it’s a hug in a dish, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and a surefire way to elevate any weeknight dinner or special occasion. I truly believe this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. The combination of perfectly cooked ziti, the rich and tangy tomato sauce, and that gloriously melted, bubbly cheese topping is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out, leaving you completely satisfied and wanting more.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, feel free to experiment and make it your own! For a meatier version, brown some Italian sausage or ground beef and add it to the sauce. If you’re a veggie lover, sauté some mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach and incorporate them into the pasta mixture. Want to kick up the spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy Italian sausage. The possibilities are endless!

Serving suggestions? This Baked Ziti Cheesy Pasta is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and some crusty garlic bread. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. And don’t forget the Parmesan cheese! A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds a wonderful salty and savory note.

Beyond the main course, leftovers (if there are any!) are just as amazing. They reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave, making them perfect for lunch the next day. You can even transform the leftovers into a completely new dish by adding them to a frittata or using them as a filling for stuffed peppers.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s easy to follow, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers exceptional results every single time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe to be a breeze.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Baked Ziti Cheesy Pasta is a guaranteed winner!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy!

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