This Cheesy Baked Ziti is the definition of comfort food… tender pasta layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and a golden, bubbly topping that makes every bite irresistible 😍🍝🧀🔥

by

🍝🧀 Cheesy Baked Ziti 🧀🍝

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 lb ziti pasta

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 24 oz marinara or tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cheese Layer

  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping

  • Extra mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the ziti until al dente according to package directions.
  3. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the ground beef until browned.
  3. Add the diced onion and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  6. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

4. Assemble the Ziti

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Add half of the cooked ziti.
  4. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the pasta.
  5. Add half of the remaining meat sauce.
  6. Repeat the layers.
  7. Finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

5. Bake

  1. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.

6. Serve

  1. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

Tips

  • Add Italian sausage for extra flavor.
  • Mix a little sauce into the pasta before layering to keep it extra moist.
  • Let the baked ziti rest before slicing for cleaner servings.
  • Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad.

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

Servings

6–8 servings

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

  • Calories: 500–650 kcal
  • Protein: 28–35 g
  • Fat: 20–28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45–55 g
  • Fiber: 3–5 g
  • Sugar: 5–8 g

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Ziti is a classic family favorite featuring layers of pasta, savory beef sauce, creamy ricotta, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and feeding a hungry crowd.

Must express something to keep getting my recipes. Thank you ❤️ 🍝🧀❤️

Leave a Comment