Classic Baked Ziti Pasta Casserole Recipe
# Classic Baked Ziti Pasta Casserole Recipe: A Timeless Comfort Food
Baked Ziti is a quintessential comfort food that has found its way into the hearts and homes of many. This classic Italian-American dish combines hearty pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese into a casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, and gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results every time.
## Ingredients
To make a classic baked ziti pasta casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
### Pasta and Cheese
– **1 pound ziti pasta**: You can also use penne or rigatoni if ziti is unavailable.
– **2 cups ricotta cheese**: Provides creaminess and richness.
– **2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese**: For that irresistible gooey texture.
– **1 cup grated Parmesan cheese**: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor.
### Sauce
– **1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage**: Optional, but adds a meaty depth to the dish.
– **1 large onion, diced**: For a sweet and savory base.
– **3 cloves garlic, minced**: Essential for that aromatic Italian flavor.
– **1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes**: The backbone of your sauce.
– **1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce**: Adds smoothness to the sauce.
– **1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste**: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
– **1 teaspoon dried basil**: For a hint of herbal freshness.
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**: Adds an earthy note.
– **Salt and pepper to taste**: Essential for seasoning.
– **2 tablespoons olive oil**: For sautéing.
### Optional Add-ins
– **Fresh basil leaves**: For garnish and added flavor.
– **Red pepper flakes**: For a bit of heat.
## Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
### Step 2: Make the Sauce
1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. If using ground beef or Italian sausage, add it to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
### Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with half of the sauce. Stir until the pasta is well-coated.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
### Step 4: Layer the Casserole
1. Spread a thin layer of the remaining sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add half of the pasta mixture to the dish, spreading it evenly.
3. Dollop spoonfuls of the ricotta mixture over the pasta layer.
4. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
5. Pour the remaining sauce over the pasta.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
### Step 5: Bake
1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
### Step 6: Serve
1. Let the baked ziti rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
2. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!
## Tips for Success
– **Make Ahead**: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
– **Freezing**: Baked ziti freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 45 minutes to an hour.
– **Vegetarian Option**: Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
## Conclusion
Classic Baked Ziti
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