Baked Ziti Recipe: An Instant Dinner Classic
A colleague once shared this Baked Ziti Recipe with me, and it became an immediate favorite among my dinner guests. This savory dish is perfect for any covered dish dinner, thanks to its rich flavor and satisfying texture. Furthermore, it’s equally delightful when prepared without meat, making it versatile for various dietary preferences.
Yield and Cooking Time
Yield: 10 servings
Prep time: 20 mins | Cook time: 35 mins | Total: 55 mins
Ingredients
- 1 pound dry pasta (ziti)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
- 6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Baked Ziti
The preparation process is straightforward, ensuring that both novice and experienced cooks can achieve a fantastic meal.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta, and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain.
- In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and ground beef over medium heat until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.
- Mix in spaghetti sauce and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- In a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer as follows: half of the cooked ziti pasta, the provolone cheese, sour cream, half of the sauce mixture, remaining ziti, mozzarella cheese, and remaining sauce mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheeses are melted and bubbling.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Ziti Recipe
Firstly, this Baked Ziti Recipe is quick and easy to prepare, taking less than an hour from start to finish. Secondly, it offers a hearty mix of pasta, cheese, and sauce to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Moreover, for a lighter version, you can substitute meat with vegetables or use reduced-fat cheeses while maintaining its delightful flavor.
Healthier Cooking Option
For those looking to reduce calories and fat, consider using whole wheat ziti and substituting ground beef with lean chicken or turkey. Additionally, using low-fat mozzarella and sour cream will retain the dish’s creamy texture without compromising health.
Baked Ziti: Perfect for Any Occasion
In conclusion, the Baked Ziti Recipe not only provides a comforting meal but also showcases versatility for various gatherings. Try it at your next covered dish dinner, and it’s sure to become a staple among your signature dishes. To sum up, this classic recipe delivers flavor, convenience, and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for home cooks.
