The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Ziti: The Comfort Food Hero You Need
There is something inherently magical about a golden-brown crust of melted mozzarella giving way to a heart-warming layer of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy ricotta. This Cheesy Baked Ziti isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug.
Why This Baked Ziti Recipe Wins
What makes this specific Baked Ziti recipe stand out is the balance of textures. We avoid the common pitfall of dry pasta by ensuring a high sauce-to-pasta ratio and using a signature three-cheese blend that creates a gooey, decadent finish every single time. It is the definition of Italian-American comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Flavor
- Ziti Pasta (1 lb): The star of the show; designed to trap meat sauce.
- Ground Italian Sausage or Beef (1 lb): Adds a complex profile of fennel and spice.
- Marinara Sauce (28-32 oz): Use a high-quality slow-simmered tomato sauce.
- Ricotta Cheese (15 oz): Provides the “creamy pockets” that define the dish.
- Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups, shredded): Essential for that iconic cheese pull.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a salty, nutty umami depth.
- Egg (1 large): Acts as a binder for the ricotta layer.
- Fresh Garlic (3 cloves): Sautéing fresh garlic creates a foundational layer of flavor.
- Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Boil the Pasta: Cook the ziti in salted water. Drain 2 minutes before it reaches al dente.
- Brown the Meat: Brown your Italian sausage or beef. Drain fat and add minced garlic.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the marinara into the meat. Let it simmer to allow the flavors to marry.
- The Ricotta Mixture: Stir together ricotta cheese, egg, and half the Parmesan.
- The Assembly: Layer sauce, half the pasta, the ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Top with remaining pasta and cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 mins. Remove foil and bake 15-20 more until bubbly and golden.
PRO TIP: Grate your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese has potato starch that stops it from melting into that ultra-gooey texture.
Perfect Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: To mop up every last drop of savory red sauce.
- Arugula Salad: Provides a necessary acidic contrast to the rich cheese.