How to Create a Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole
Craving something warm, comforting, and cheesy? Baked ziti casserole is the perfect dish to make! This simple recipe is loaded with pasta, gooey cheese, and a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, gatherings, or even just a cozy night at home. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare! In this blog, we’ll walk you step-by-step through creating a cheesy baked ziti casserole – even if you’re not a seasoned cook.
What Is Baked Ziti?
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food. It’s made with ziti pasta (a short tube-shaped noodle), mixed with tomato sauce, cheese, and baked to perfection. If you don’t have ziti on hand, you can easily substitute penne or rigatoni. The recipe is versatile, so it’s easy to customize with ingredients you have at home.
Now, let’s dive into the process of making this delicious dish. We’ll break it down into simple, easy-to-follow steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what you’ll need to make cheesy baked ziti casserole:
For the pasta:
– 1 pound (16 ounces) ziti pasta (or penne or rigatoni)
For the sauce:
– 2 cups marinara or tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 pound (16 ounces) ground beef, ground turkey, or Italian sausage (optional for a meatier dish)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the cheese mix:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 large egg
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
For topping:
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Boil a pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). This usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
While your pasta boils, make the sauce. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
If you’re using meat like ground beef or sausage, add it to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once the meat is cooked, stir in the marinara or tomato sauce. Season the sauce with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 3: Mix the Cheeses
In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, and onion powder. This creamy cheese mixture is what gives baked ziti its irresistible cheesiness. Stir everything until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Now it’s time to layer everything! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a large casserole dish or baking pan.
Start by spreading a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. This prevents the pasta from sticking.
Next, add about half of the cooked pasta into the dish. Top the pasta with half of the sauce and spread it evenly. Then, dollop and spread half of the cheese mixture over the sauce.
Repeat the layers: Add the remaining pasta, top with the remaining sauce, and spread the rest of the cheese mixture on top.
Step 5: Add Extra Cheese
For the final step, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the casserole. This creates a cheesy golden crust when baked.
Step 6: Bake the Ziti
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and lightly browned.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once your baked ziti casserole is done, let it cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to dish out. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal!
Helpful Tips:
- Customize the Recipe: Don’t eat meat? Skip the ground beef. Want it extra cheesy? Add more mozzarella. This recipe is flexible, so make it your own!
- Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10–15 minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheat Leftovers: Baked ziti tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Final Thoughts:
Cheesy baked ziti casserole is truly one of the easiest and most delicious comfort foods you can make at home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that anyone can tackle. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this baked ziti recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try tonight and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness!
Happy cooking! 😊
