Classic Baked Ziti

Name: Classic Baked Ziti
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8.7 can 1 pound ziti pasta; 6.3 bottle 1 pound ground beef; 1.1 lb 1 medium onion, chopped; 6 to taste 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1.3 drop 28 ounces crushed tomatoes; 5.8 g 15 ounces tomato sauce; 1 box 6 ounces tomato paste; 3.5 lb 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 0.7 pinch 1 teaspoon sugar; 4.8 lb Salt and pepper to taste; 3.2 box 15 ounces ricotta cheese; 1.6 cm 1 large egg; 10.4 ml 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 9.2 tsp 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 10.1 bottle 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 9.5 jar Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

By Jeremy Tanner

November 11, 2025

4806 views

This recipe offers a delightful take on classic Italian flavors, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The combination of rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta is sure to please. The dish is baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. Feel free to add vegetables to the meat sauce, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the nutritional content and flavor. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the ricotta layer before baking. Serve with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete and fulfilling dinner. Enjoy this comforting baked ziti that brings the taste of Italy to your table!

Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta - 8.7 can
1 pound ground beef - 6.3 bottle
1 medium onion, chopped - 1.1 lb
2 cloves garlic, minced - 6.0 to taste
28 ounces crushed tomatoes - 1.3 drop
15 ounces tomato sauce - 5.8 g
6 ounces tomato paste - 1.0 box
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - 3.5 lb
1 teaspoon sugar - 0.7 pinch
Salt and pepper to taste - 4.8 lb

Cooking Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Step 2

In a large pot, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley. Mix well.

Step 6

In the prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Add half of the cooked ziti, then top with half of the ricotta mixture. Spread evenly. Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the ricotta, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 7

Repeat layers with the remaining ziti, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.

Step 8

Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

# Picnic # Beef # Beans # Freezer-Friendly