Embark on a culinary adventure with Hoppy and discover the secrets of creating a delectable Baked Ziti Casserole. This classic Italian-American dish tantalizes taste buds with its harmonious blend of pasta, cheese, and meat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, our comprehensive guide will lead you through the steps of crafting this hearty and comforting casserole. Get ready to indulge in a dish that will become a family favorite and a staple in your recipe collection.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Tomato paste | 6 ounces |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Mozzarella cheese | 16 ounces, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
I. Ingredients
Baked Ziti Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the classic flavors of pasta, cheese, and meat. To make this delicious casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Once you have gathered all of your ingredients, you can begin preparing your Baked Ziti Casserole. Follow the steps in the next section to create this delicious dish.
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Tomato paste | 6 ounces |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Mozzarella cheese | 16 ounces, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
II. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Ziti Casserole
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a delicious Baked Ziti Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Pour half of the meat sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the pasta mixture and then the remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
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III. Preparation
Gather Your Ingredients
To make Baked Ziti Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ziti pasta
- Ground beef
- Italian sausage
- Onion
- Garlic
- Crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
IV. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Ziti Casserole
Cook the Pasta
Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
Make the Sauce
In a separate saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned meat, sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Bake the Casserole
Pour the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the Casserole Rest
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
V. Serving Suggestions for Baked Ziti Casserole
- Serve Baked Ziti Casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
- Top the casserole with additional grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh basil before serving.
- For a heartier meal, serve Baked Ziti Casserole with a side of grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.
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VII. Baking and Serving
Once the pasta dishes are assembled, it’s time to bake them. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). For a traditional Baked Ziti Casserole, cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pasta is heated through. Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent it from overcooking.
Alternatively, if you prefer a crispy and golden-brown top, you can finish the baking process by broiling the casserole. After baking the casserole covered for 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The cheese should bubble and brown nicely.
Serve the Baked Ziti Casserole hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) for added flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or roasted vegetables. Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
| Temperature | Time | Covered/Uncovered |
|---|---|---|
| 375°F (190°C) | 30 minutes | Covered |
| 375°F (190°C) | 15-20 minutes | Uncovered |
For a unique twist on the classic Baked Ziti Casserole, try using different types of pasta, such as penne, shells, or rigatoni. You can also add vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses; a combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta is always a winner, but you could also try using fontina, Gruyère, or Asiago. Explore our website hoppy for more delectable pasta recipes to expand your culinary horizons.
VIII. Tips for a Perfect Baked Ziti Casserole
Choose the Right Pasta
The best pasta for baked ziti is a short, tube-shaped pasta that can hold the sauce and cheese well. Some good options include ziti, penne, and rigatoni. Avoid using long, thin pasta like spaghetti or linguine, as they will not hold the sauce as well.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente
When cooking the pasta for your baked ziti, be sure to cook it al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when it is baked in the casserole.
Use a High-Quality Sauce
The sauce is one of the most important components of a baked ziti casserole. Be sure to use a high-quality sauce that is flavorful and has a good consistency. You can use a store-bought sauce or make your own. If you are making your own sauce, be sure to simmer it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Use Plenty of Cheese
Cheese is another essential ingredient in baked ziti casserole. Be sure to use a combination of cheeses that will melt well and provide a rich, flavorful sauce. Some good options include mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses.
Bake the Casserole Until Golden Brown
When baking the casserole, be sure to bake it until it is golden brown on top. This will ensure that the cheese is melted and bubbly and that the casserole is cooked through.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Tomato paste | 6 ounces |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Mozzarella cheese | 16 ounces, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
Here are some additional tips for making a perfect baked ziti casserole:
- Use a large baking dish to ensure that the casserole cooks evenly.
- Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of the baking time to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread or a salad.
With these tips, you can make a delicious baked ziti casserole that your family and friends will love. So next time you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal, give this recipe a try.
For more Italian-inspired recipes, check out our related posts on Authentic Italian Seafood Pasta, Italian Seafood Risotto Varieties, and Traditional Italian Seafood Stew.
IX. Variations
Baked Ziti Casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Meat Variations: Instead of ground beef and Italian sausage, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend of your favorites.
- Vegetable Variations: Add your favorite vegetables to the casserole, such as spinach, broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Sauce Variations: Use a different type of sauce, such as Alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, or a creamy tomato sauce.
- Pasta Variations: You can use different types of pasta, such as penne, macaroni, or spaghetti.
Get creative and experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique Baked Ziti Casserole recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ziti pasta | 1 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Tomato paste | 6 ounces |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces |
| Mozzarella cheese | 16 ounces, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
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X. Conclusion
Baked Ziti Casserole is a versatile dish that can be tailored to your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a meaty casserole or a vegetarian version, there are endless possibilities for customization. Experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings to create a dish that is uniquely yours. The next time you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, give Baked Ziti Casserole a try. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
