Baked Ziti Italian Pasta Casserole

Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this classic Baked Ziti. A staple of Italian-American cuisine, this dish brings together perfectly cooked ziti pasta, a rich and savory tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and a generous blanket of melted mozzarella. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, baked to golden, bubbling perfection. It's the perfect meal for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or sharing with friends.

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The heart of this dish lies in its simple yet robust components. A homemade tomato sauce simmers with herbs, while a creamy ricotta mixture adds a luxurious texture. Layering is key to achieving that perfect distribution of cheese and sauce in every spoonful. Let's gather our ingredients and get started.

Ingredients

• 450 g (1 lb) ziti or penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 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 tsp sugar
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 425 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 60 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried)
• 250 g (2 1/2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Additional grated Parmesan, for topping

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a large baking dish (about 23x33 cm / 9x13 inches).

Step 2

Cook the ziti in a large pot of salted boiling water until just al dente (about 2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

Step 3

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft (about 4 minutes), then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Step 4

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

Step 5

In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and parsley. Mix well and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 6

In a large bowl, toss the drained pasta with half of the tomato sauce.

Step 7

Spread half the pasta mixture in the baking dish. Dollop and gently spread half the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle with half the mozzarella.

Step 8

Repeat layers with remaining pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella. Pour remaining sauce over the top and finish with extra Parmesan.

Step 9

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 10

Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, cook the ziti until just al dente, about two minutes less than the package directs, as it will continue to cook in the oven. After baking, it's essential to let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the layers to set, ensuring cleaner slices when you serve.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to customize this dish. For a meat version, brown 450g (1 lb) of Italian sausage and incorporate it into the sauce. If you don't have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a suitable substitute. To add more nutrients and flavor, mix in sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables.

Serviervorschläge

This Baked Ziti is a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad and garlic bread. For a wine pairing, a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese complements the rich tomato and cheese flavors perfectly.

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With these tips and simple steps, you're ready to create a memorable and delicious Baked Ziti that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to make something truly special. Enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time since it will be cold.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Ziti is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or mostaccioli work equally well. Choose a tube shape that holds sauce and cheese inside the pasta for the best results.

→ Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely. Freeze before baking or freeze leftovers. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat at 180°C (350°F) until hot throughout.

→ Why do I need to undercook the pasta?

The pasta continues cooking in the oven as it absorbs liquid from the sauce. Stopping 2 minutes early prevents mushy texture and ensures perfectly al dente results after baking.

→ Can I add meat to this dish?

Brown 450 g (1 lb) Italian sausage, ground beef, or turkey and add it to the tomato sauce during simmering. This adds protein and creates a heartier version.

→ How do I know when it's done baking?

Look for bubbling sauce around the edges and golden-brown cheese on top. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned, and the dish should feel set when you gently shake the pan.