Save A comforting Italian-American pasta casserole featuring tender ziti , a rich meat sauce , and gooey melted cheeses&mdashperfect for family dinners or gatherings.
This dish has become a family favorite for Sunday dinners , always bringing everyone together around the table.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 450 g (1 lb) ziti pasta
- Meat Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion , finely chopped 3 cloves garlic , minced 500 g (1 lb) ground beef 400 g (14 oz) Italian sausage , casings removed 800 g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes 2 tbsp tomato paste 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried basil 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 1 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Cheese Mixture: 425 g (15 oz) ricotta cheese 1 large egg 50 g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- For Assembly: 250 g (2 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ziti pasta until al dente , about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large skillet , heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened , 3 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Step 4:
- Add ground beef and sausage. Cook , breaking up meat , until browned and cooked through , about 6 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Step 5:
- Stir in crushed tomatoes , tomato paste , oregano , basil , red pepper flakes (if using) , salt , and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10 15 minutes , stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as desired.
- Step 6:
- In a bowl , mix ricotta cheese , egg , Parmesan cheese , and parsley until well combined.
- Step 7:
- In the prepared baking dish , spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer half of the cooked ziti , half of the ricotta mixture , and half of the meat sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella cheese.
- Step 8:
- Repeat layers: remaining ziti , ricotta mixture , meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 9:
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Save Sharing this meal with my family always creates warm memories and happy conversations.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. Pairs well with Chianti or Sangiovese wine.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Mixing bowls 23x33 cm (9x13-inch) baking dish Foil
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (pasta) , dairy (ricotta , mozzarella , Parmesan) , and egg. Contains pork (Italian sausage). Always check labels for gluten or dairy if using alternative ingredients.
Save This baked ziti is a perfect comfort meal that you can customize to your family’s taste.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the meats in this dish?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef and sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- → How do I ensure the pasta cooks perfectly?
Cook the ziti in salted boiling water until al dente, usually about 8 minutes, then drain and set aside before layering.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed spinach or mushrooms are excellent additions, providing extra texture and nutrients.
- → What cheeses are best for this casserole?
A combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella is used to create a creamy interior and a melty, golden topping.
- → How long should the casserole rest after baking?
Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after baking to help the layers set and make serving easier.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
Chianti or Sangiovese wines complement the rich meat sauce and cheese flavors beautifully.