Four Cheese Baked Ziti

When it comes to comfort food that satisfies every craving, Four Cheese Baked Ziti is a classic that never disappoints. This hearty, cheesy pasta bake is loaded with a rich blend of four distinct cheeses and a savory tomato sauce with ground beef, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or casual get-togethers. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and goat cheese creates an irresistibly creamy and flavorful dish that is both simple to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just in need of a crowd-pleasing recipe, this baked ziti will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Top Reasons to Make Four Cheese Baked Ziti

• Ultimate Comfort Food: The melty cheese and perfectly baked pasta make this dish a warm hug in a bowl.
• Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and cooks all in one dish, saving you time and cleanup.
• Family Favorite: Appeals to all ages, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
• Rich and Flavorful: The blend of four cheeses combined with herbs and a savory beef sauce creates layers of deliciousness.

Ingredient Rundown

• 12 ounces ziti pasta: Tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce beautifully and bakes up perfectly tender.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the ground beef and aromatics, adding a subtle fruity flavor.
• 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty protein and depth to the sauce. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as alternatives.
• 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and texture to the sauce base.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for flavor, giving the sauce a fragrant punch.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: The tomato base that ties everything together; choose a quality sauce or homemade.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbal note to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, aromatic flavor to complement the tomatoes.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a mild kick and seasoning balance.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds richness and smooth texture.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, providing gooey, stretchy cheese pulls.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and depth.
• 1 cup crumbled goat cheese: Offers tanginess and a unique creamy texture that sets this dish apart.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with color and a fresh herbal finish.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large pot: For boiling the ziti pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet: To brown the ground beef and sauté onions and garlic.
• Mixing bowl: For combining cheeses and seasoning.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for layering and baking the ziti.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and combine ingredients without scratching cookware.
• Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
• Oven mitts: For safe handling of hot dishes from the oven.

Cook Four Cheese Baked Ziti Like This

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Seasonings

Pour in 24 ounces of marinara sauce, then sprinkle in 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups ricotta cheese, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup crumbled goat cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Baked Ziti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce across the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta, then dollop and spread half of the ricotta and goat cheese mixture over the pasta. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella over the cheese layer. Repeat the layering process: remaining pasta, remaining cheese mixture, the rest of the meat sauce, and top with the remaining 1 cup shredded mozzarella.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Customize for Your Needs

• Swap ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing taste.
• Try different cheese combinations, such as adding provolone or fontina, to mix up the flavor profile.
• For extra spice, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinara sauce.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcooking the pasta before baking can result in mushy baked ziti; always cook it al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Not draining excess fat from the cooked beef can make the dish greasy.
• Skipping the resting time after baking means the ziti might not set well and could be overly runny.
• Using pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents can reduce meltiness—opt for freshly shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Four Cheese Baked Ziti is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can assemble it the day before, cover it tightly with foil, and keep it in the refrigerator. When ready, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from cold. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish also freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for heartiness. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes to keep the texture similar.

Is goat cheese necessary, or can I leave it out?

While goat cheese adds a lovely tang and creaminess, you can omit it if you prefer. To maintain the balance of flavors, consider increasing the ricotta or Parmesan slightly.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While ziti is traditional, penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so the pasta is al dente before baking.

How can I make this dish less rich?

Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, reduce the amount of cheese slightly, and consider adding more vegetables to lighten it up without losing flavor.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese – A classic cheesy pasta dish that’s both simple and satisfying.
• Baked Chicken Alfredo Ziti – Creamy and comforting with tender chicken and rich Alfredo sauce.
• Cauliflower Mac and Cheese – A lighter twist on the traditional mac with added veggies.
• Spaghetti Squash Lasagna – A low-carb alternative packed with cheesy goodness and veggies.

See You at the Table

Gathering around a steaming dish of Four Cheese Baked Ziti is a simple pleasure that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Its creamy, cheesy layers paired with savory meat sauce make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you keep it classic or customize it to your liking, this baked ziti recipe is sure to become a beloved staple. So, preheat your oven, grab your favorite baking dish, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy, hearty, and utterly delicious meal that feels like a warm embrace. Here’s to many cozy dinners ahead!

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