Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Comfort Food at Its Best
- Why This Baked Ziti Is a Must-Try
- Perfect for Busy Weeknights
- Family-Friendly and Freezer-Ready
- Simple Tips for the Best Results
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This baked ziti recipe is the epitome of comfort food. With layers of pasta, cheese, and hearty meat sauce, it’s one of those easy recipes that delivers big flavor without the fuss. Ideal for busy weeknights and perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish is a staple in any home cook’s rotation.
Comfort Food at Its Best: Easy Recipes That Satisfy
If you’re looking for easy recipes that warm the soul and fill the belly, Patricia’s classic baked ziti on Patricia Universe is the answer. With rich layers of marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, it’s everything you want in a homemade casserole. And yes—it’s one of those dinner recipes you’ll come back to over and over again.
Why This Baked Ziti Is a Must-Try Recipe for Dinner
From its bold, cheesy layers to the satisfying meat sauce tucked between, this dish nails the comfort food factor. It’s easy to see why baked ziti is one of the top recipes for dinner—it’s foolproof, filling, and fun to make. Whether you’re craving something like a cheesey potatoes easy recipe or need a substitute for butter swim biscuits easy recipes, this dish brings the same heartiness with minimal effort.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights: Quick and Easy Recipes
We all need reliable, quick and easy recipes in our weekly routine. This baked ziti fits that bill perfectly. It’s easy to prep, cooks in under an hour, and leaves everyone at the table asking for seconds. And best of all, it’s flexible—add your favorite herbs, swap in ground turkey, or throw in spinach for a veggie twist.
Family-Friendly and Freezer-Ready Dinner Recipes
One of the best things about easy recipes like this is how well they hold up for leftovers. Make a big batch and freeze a portion for later—ideal for those last-minute dinner emergencies. Plus, it’s kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters, making it a reliable option in any dinner rotation.
Simple Tips for the Best Results
Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years: Don’t overcook the pasta—it continues to soften as it bakes. Mix your ricotta filling thoroughly so every bite is flavorful. And if you’re feeling bold, top the final layer with extra mozzarella for that golden, bubbly finish we all love.
Notes & Tips
This dish isn’t just a star among comfort food classics—it’s a versatile, go-to solution for meal planning. Try pairing it with a light salad or garlic bread to balance out the richness. And remember, Patricia’s recipes on Patricia Universe always aim to simplify your cooking experience while maximizing flavor.
Easy Recipes: Classic Baked Ziti With Cheesy Layers
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (25-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté diced onions for 3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the ricotta mixture and stir to combine.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Add half the pasta mixture, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
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