Creamy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep, look no further than this Creamy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce. It combines tender pasta coated in a rich, savory meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, then baked to bubbly perfection. The flavors meld beautifully, delivering that classic Italian-American dish everyone loves. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Creamy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce hits all the right notes: it’s easy to put together, hearty enough to satisfy hungry appetites, and infinitely adaptable. The blend of ricotta and mozzarella creates a luscious creamy texture that contrasts perfectly with the robust meat sauce. Plus, the baked top gets golden and slightly crisp, adding a lovely texture. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with your favorite herbs or extra veggies. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why this baked ziti becomes a repeat favorite.

Gather These Ingredients

• 12 oz ziti pasta – tubular pasta that holds the sauce well
• 1 lb ground beef – lean and fresh
• 1 small onion, diced – for a subtle sweetness
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – adds vibrant aroma and depth
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes – forms the base of the meat sauce
• 2 tsp dried oregano – classic Italian herb
• 1 tsp dried basil – adds fragrant herbal notes
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings
• 2 cups ricotta cheese – creamy, mild, and soft
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – for gooey meltiness
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp, nutty flavor
• 1 egg – helps bind the ricotta mixture
• 2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing

Equipment at a Glance

• Large pot – to boil the pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the meat sauce
• Mixing bowl – to combine the ricotta mixture
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking
• Colander – to drain pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring

Creamy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce in Steps

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve about a cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.

Once the beef is browned, pour in the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes. Add 2 teaspoons dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups ricotta cheese, 1 egg, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add richness and help bind the layers together.

Step 4: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In the 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta over the sauce. Dollop and spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella.

Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and top everything with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas

• Spring: Add fresh spinach or asparagus to the meat sauce for a seasonal veggie boost.
• Summer: Stir in chopped fresh basil or summer squash for a light, fresh flavor.
• Fall: Mix roasted butternut squash or mushrooms into the sauce for earthy warmth.
• Winter: Serve with a warm, comforting Simple Homemade Tomato Soup for a cozy meal.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is key since it will cook more in the oven.
• Be sure to brown the beef thoroughly for the best flavor and texture.
• Mix the egg into the ricotta well to avoid lumps and ensure binding.
• Cover the dish while baking to keep moisture in, then uncover near the end for a golden top.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Creamy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate before baking. It also reheats beautifully for lunches or dinners later in the week.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• For longer storage, freeze the baked ziti (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

FAQ

Can I use other pasta instead of ziti?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even tubular pasta similar in size and shape will work well to hold the sauce and cheese layers.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while simmering or mix in some spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a kick of heat.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils to the sauce for a hearty vegetarian option.

What’s the best cheese to use for extra creaminess?

Fresh ricotta combined with mozzarella gives a perfect creamy texture. You can also add a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone for an even richer feel.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Meatballs With Tomato Sauce And Rice – another comforting classic with rich tomato flavors.
• Simple Homemade Tomato Soup – a perfect starter or side to your pasta dishes.

Wrap-Up

This Creamy Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together hearty meat sauce, tender pasta, and indulgent cheese layers. The recipe is straightforward yet delivers layers of flavor and texture that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals ahead, it fits every occasion and season with easy tweaks. Whip it up soon and enjoy the comforting goodness that only baked ziti can provide.

From the first bite to the last, this recipe proves why baked pasta dishes remain kitchen favorites everywhere. Don’t forget to pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. Happy cooking!

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