Go Back
Cheesy Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace served on a plate. This beloved Italian-American dish has found its way into homes across the globe, cherished for its heartwarming flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner, Cheesy Baked Ziti combines layers of pasta, savory meat, and a generous helping of cheese, creating a dish that is both indulgent and delightful. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its rich flavors but also in its simplicity, allowing cooks of all skill levels to whip up a culinary masterpiece that everyone will enjoy.

Family-Friendly Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole

Discover the joy of making Cheesy Baked Ziti, a comforting Italian-American classic that's perfect for any occasion. This delightful recipe features layers of ziti pasta, savory meat, and gooey cheese, making it a hit for family dinners or potlucks. Easy to follow, it guides you through selecting ingredients, preparing the sauce, and crafting the layers for an indulgent, flavorful dish. Join in the fun of cooking and create lasting memories around the table with this heartwarming meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

        Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

          Combine Sauce and Meat: Stir in the marinara sauce with the cooked meat mixture. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes on low heat, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

            Mix the Cheese: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

              Assemble the Casserole: In a large baking dish, spread half of the ziti pasta on the bottom. Layer half of the meat sauce over the pasta, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, ricotta, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 6-8 servings