Classic Baked Ziti
Classic baked ziti made with pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. A comforting and easy baked dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and part of the Parmesan cheese.
- In a baking dish, layer sauce, pasta, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use whole milk ricotta for creamier texture.
Add sausage or vegetables for variation.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze for longer storage if needed.
Add sausage or vegetables for variation.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze for longer storage if needed.