Classic Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce and Mozzarella
A hearty and comforting American baked ziti layered with rich ground beef tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, baked until bubbly and golden brown. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Check ingredients as you go.
- Meat Sauce
- Pasta
- Meat Sauce
- Assembly
- Garnish
Let’s make it
Preparation
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish lightly.
Pasta
Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Meat Sauce
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Meat Sauce
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Meat Sauce
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend flavors.
Assembly
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with meat sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix gently to combine.
Assembly
Transfer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the grated parmesan cheese over it. Repeat with remaining pasta mixture and parmesan.
Assembly
Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly spread on top.
Assembly
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Serving
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips & notes
Use lean ground beef for less grease. Drain pasta well before mixing to avoid a watery casserole. Letting the baked ziti rest after baking helps the cheese and sauce set for easier serving.
Saving it for later
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through, about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway. Alternatively, reheat in a 175°C (350°F) oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
