If you are craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying meal, look no further than this Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe. This classic Italian-American dish brings together tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese into one glorious casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or whenever you want a delicious, no-fuss meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the al dente pasta that holds onto the sauce to the fragrant fresh basil that adds brightness, each component is simple but essential.
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne or gluten-free pasta): Ideal for soaking up all the saucy goodness without turning mushy.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean): Adds hearty flavor and a meaty texture to the sauce.
- 1 onion (chopped): Gives a subtle sweetness once sautéed, balancing the robust flavors.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic punch.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the other ingredients’ natural flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and depth to the sauce.
- 5 cups marinara sauce: The tomato base that brings acidity, richness, and that classic Italian flair.
- 15 oz fresh ricotta: Creamy and mild, this cheese softens the sauce and adds silkiness.
- 10 fresh basil leaves: Brightens and freshens with every bite, cutting through the richness.
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided): Melts beautifully to create that irresistible gooey layer on top.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided): Adds nuttiness and sharpness that round out the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe
Step 1: Perfectly Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the ziti in salted water until just al dente. This is important because the pasta will continue cooking later in the oven, so you want to avoid a mushy result. Once cooked, drain it well and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Rich Meat Sauce
In a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions together, breaking up the meat with your spatula until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft. Toss in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and sauté for another minute to let those flavors mingle. Pour in the marinara sauce, bring it to a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 5 minutes. Then turn off the heat and get ready to assemble.
Step 3: Layer the Flavors
Start by spreading a ladle of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish. This keeps the pasta from sticking and ensures every bite has a little saucy goodness underneath.
Step 4: Combine Ricotta and Basil with the Sauce and Pasta
Chop the basil leaves finely and stir them into the remaining meat sauce along with the ricotta. Then add the cooked pasta to this mixture and gently stir until all the noodles are nicely coated but still retain that creamy ricotta texture.
Step 5: Layer the Pasta and Cheese
Transfer half of the saucy pasta into the casserole dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan on top. Add the remaining pasta and finish with the rest of the mozzarella and parmesan. This layered technique ensures that cheesy, golden crust we all love on baked ziti.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Clear the edges of the casserole so the cheese doesn’t burn onto the dish during baking. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes, then switch to broil for 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a beautifully browned and bubbly cheese topping. Let it cool for about 5 minutes so it sets nicely before serving. Garnish with more fresh basil if you like, and dig in!
How to Serve Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly torn basil leaves, a light dusting of extra parmesan, or a few red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat can elevate the presentation and flavor of your baked ziti. These simple touches add freshness and visual appeal that make the dish pop on the table.
Side Dishes
Pair your baked ziti with a crisp green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Garlic bread or a crunchy focaccia is also a fantastic accompaniment that complements the cheesy, saucy pasta perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins with a broiled cheese crust right before serving. Alternatively, layer the pasta in a glass casserole dish to showcase the beautiful layers of sauce and cheese. This Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe is as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. After assembling but before baking, cover the casserole tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the baked ziti with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to refresh the golden cheese topping.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ziti is traditional, penne or a gluten-free pasta also work wonderfully and absorb the sauce nicely.
Is this Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate, and then bake when you’re ready. It also reheats well for quick lunches or dinners.
Can I substitute ground beef with other proteins?
Definitely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage are great alternatives that will equally bring flavor and heartiness to the dish.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply skip the meat and increase the amount of marinara sauce and cheeses. Add cooked vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture.
What’s the best way to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente, then drain thoroughly. Since it bakes in the sauce, this prevents it from overcooking and keeps a nice, tender bite.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe is a wonderful blend of simplicity and heartwarming flavors that makes for an unbeatable comfort meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or craving something cozy on a weeknight, this dish delivers every time. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your favorite go-to pasta casseroles, just like it is for me!
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Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole) Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This easy baked ziti pasta casserole combines tender pasta, savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella baked to perfection with a rich marinara sauce. It’s a comforting Italian-American classic that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks, featuring fresh basil and a crispy cheesy topping browned under the broiler for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb ziti pasta (or penne pasta or gluten-free pasta)
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 5 cups marinara sauce
Cheese and Herbs
- 15 oz fresh ricotta
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water following the package instructions until just al dente. Drain well but do not overcook, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Heat a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion, breaking up the meat, and cook until beef is fully browned and onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper, sauté for another minute until fragrant. Stir in marinara sauce, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 more minutes. Remove from heat.
- Start Casserole Layer: Ladle a portion of the meat sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Mix Ricotta and Basil: Chop basil leaves and add to the remaining meat sauce in the pan. Spoon in the ricotta cheese and gently fold in the cooked pasta until noodles are just coated, preserving the ricotta’s creamy texture.
- Assemble Layers: Transfer half of the coated pasta mixture into the casserole dish over the sauce layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated parmesan evenly on top. Add the remaining pasta and then top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
- Bake and Broil: Wipe the edges of the dish clean to avoid burning cheese. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Then broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden brown, bubbly cheese crust. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a bright herbal finish and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta during boiling; it should be firm because it continues baking in the oven.
- Use fresh ricotta for best creaminess and flavor.
- Broiling at the end adds a delicious golden crust but watch closely to prevent burning.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for variation.
- Gluten-free pasta works well to make this casserole gluten-free.
