Pin it A comforting Italian-American pasta casserole featuring tender ziti, a rich meat sauce, and gooey melted cheeses—perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
This recipe brings back memories of cozy family evenings around the dinner table, sharing stories and enjoying hearty comfort food.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) ziti pasta
- Meat Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 500 g (1 lb) ground beef 400 g (14 oz) Italian sausage, casings removed 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 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Cheese Mixture: 425 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese 1 large egg 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- For Assembly: 250 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 3 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Step 4:
- Add ground beef and sausage. Cook, breaking up meat, until browned and cooked through, about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 5:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Step 6:
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until well combined.
- Step 7:
- In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the ricotta mixture, and half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Step 8:
- Repeat layers: remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 9:
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Pin it This dish brings my family together, evoking warmth and shared happiness at every serving.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. Pairs well with Chianti or Sangiovese wine.
Required Tools
Large pot, Large skillet, Mixing bowls, 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish, Foil
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta), dairy (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan), and egg. Contains pork (Italian sausage). Always check labels for gluten or dairy if using alternative ingredients.
Pin it This baked ziti recipe is a timeless classic sure to please every palate. Enjoy the rich layers of flavor with ease.
Common Questions
- → What pasta is best for this dish?
Ziti pasta is ideal because it holds sauces well and bakes evenly in layers.
- → Can I substitute the meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef and sausage for a lighter option.
- → How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the ziti until just al dente before baking to maintain texture after cooking.
- → What cheeses are used in the layers?
Ricotta mixed with egg and Parmesan forms the creamy layer, topped with shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, sautéed spinach or mushrooms can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.