admin1 Baked Ziti (Very Detailed Recipe)
Baked Ziti is a rich, cheesy, oven-baked pasta dish layered with tomato sauce, pasta, cheese, and sometimes meat. It is similar to lasagna but easier to prepare and very comforting. It is perfect for large family meals, gatherings, and special occasions.
Ingredients
500 grams ziti pasta (or penne as substitute)
4 liters water
2 tablespoons salt for boiling pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
6 cloves garlic, minced
500 grams ground beef or chicken (optional)
1 can (800 grams) crushed tomatoes
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
250 grams ricotta cheese
300 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
150 grams Parmesan cheese, grated
1 large egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
3 tablespoons butter or olive oil for greasing baking dish
Method
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Add salt and cook the ziti pasta until just al dente since it will cook further in the oven.
Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and then drain the pasta.
Set aside.
Heat a large pan over medium heat.
Add olive oil.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
If using meat, add ground beef or chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked.
Break it up while cooking so it stays crumbly.
Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavor.
Add crushed tomatoes and stir well.
Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, chili flakes, and sugar if using.
Simmer the sauce for 15 to 20 minutes until thick and rich.
Mix ricotta cheese with egg, parsley, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl.
Stir until smooth and creamy.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a large baking dish with butter or olive oil.
Add a small layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of the dish.
Add half of the cooked pasta over the sauce.
Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta in small dollops.
Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Add more sauce over the cheese layer.
Repeat with remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, sauce, and cheese.
Finish with a generous top layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and slightly bubbly.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so it sets properly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti
Do not overcook the pasta before baking or it will become mushy.
Let the baked ziti rest before cutting to help it hold shape.
Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for best flavor and texture.
Simmer the sauce well for a richer taste.
For extra creaminess, add a little cream or béchamel sauce between layers.
Optional Additions
Sautéed mushrooms
Spinach
Bell peppers
Italian sausage
Extra cheese layers
Crushed red pepper for heat
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a little extra sauce or water to keep it moist.
Baked Ziti is cheesy, saucy, hearty, and deeply satisfying, combining tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese into a comforting baked dish perfect for any occasion.
