Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a timeless Italian-American classic that combines tender pasta, a rich and savory meat sauce, and layers of melty cheese into one hearty casserole. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, bringing comfort and flavor to your table with every bite.
Save The meat sauce simmers with fragrant herbs and spices, enriching the pasta with robust Italian flavors. As it bakes, the cheese melts into a bubbly golden topping that makes this dish irresistible and filling.
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
- 1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- 2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- 4. Add ground beef and sausage. Cook, breaking up meat, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- 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.
- 6. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until well combined.
- 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.
- 8. Repeat layers: remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- 9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- 10. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To get the perfect al dente pasta, be sure to follow the recommended boiling time and test a piece before draining. When simmering the meat sauce, stirring occasionally helps the flavors blend beautifully. Covering with foil during the first baking phase keeps the casserole moist and prevents the cheese from over-browning.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage. Add vegetables like sautéed spinach or mushrooms directly into the sauce or layered between the pasta. This dish is versatile and welcomes your personal touch.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this baked ziti with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to complete the meal. It pairs wonderfully with Italian red wines such as Chianti or Sangiovese for a truly authentic experience.
Save Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a family favorite that delivers in taste, ease, and wholesome satisfaction. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish fills the table with warmth and smiles.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Ziti is preferred for its shape, but penne or rigatoni can be substituted for similar results.
- → Can I make this meal ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready to serve for convenience and freshness.
- → Is it possible to swap out the meat?
Yes. Substitute turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian variation.
- → What cheeses work best for creamy layers?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provide creaminess and flavor; feel free to add a touch of provolone if desired.
- → How do I know when it’s baked perfectly?
The top should be golden and bubbling, and the dish should rest for 10 minutes before serving for best texture.
- → What sides complement this dish?
A crisp salad, garlic bread, and a glass of robust red wine pair nicely with hearty baked ziti.