Traditional Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food — warm, cheesy, and satisfying. This recipe combines hearty pasta with a rich meat sauce, all baked to perfection. It's the perfect meal for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings.
Ziti pasta acts as the hearty base, its ridges ideal for holding onto the sauce. Olive oil adds a subtle richness when sautéing. Onion and garlic are the aromatic foundation, enhancing the depth of the sauce. Ground beef brings a savory, meaty flavor that fills you up. Marinara sauce ties everything together with its tangy and slightly sweet profile. Ricotta cheese adds a creamy texture to balance the meatiness. Shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully on top, creating that irresistible golden crust. Grated Parmesan cheese enhances with its nutty, salty notes. Finally, the dried oregano and basil bring that classic Italian herb flavor, while salt and pepper season the dish to perfection.
Pair this baked ziti with a fresh green salad, perhaps with a balsamic vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread works wonders to scoop up any leftover sauce. A glass of red wine, like a Chianti or Merlot, complements the dish beautifully.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for the baking magic. While that's heating up, grab a pot of water, and bring it to a boil. Toss in the ziti pasta and cook until it's al dente, just tender enough with a bit of bite. Drain it well and set it aside — you'll need it in a bit.
Next, let’s move to the stove. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once it's shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they're soft and fragrant. You’ll know they’re ready when the kitchen starts smelling amazing.
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until it's browned through. Remember to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from getting greasy. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, and basil. Let it all simmer together for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, your delicious meat sauce, and the ricotta cheese. Mix it all until the pasta is well-coated and evenly distributed. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly, then pour in the pasta mixture, spreading it out evenly.
For the cheesy goodness, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the top. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving so everything sets nicely.
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