Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta bake, and this Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It combines tender al dente pasta with a rich, savory meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and sharp parmesan, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re making a family dinner or feeding friends, this dish brings together simple ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying meal every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the hearty ground meat that packs in flavor, to the fresh herbs that brighten the sauce, and the trio of cheeses that create an irresistible melty topping.

• 300g / 10oz ziti or penne pasta: Curved tubes to hold sauce in every bite—cooked just under al dente to finish baking perfectly.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic, adding a subtle richness.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds that warm garlic punch essential for Italian cooking.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth once softened.
• 500g / 1 lb ground beef or pork (or 50/50 combo): The hearty protein base that makes this dish so satisfying.
• 700g / 24 oz tomato passata: Pureed tomatoes ensure a smooth, rich sauce texture.
• 1/2 cup water: To loosen the sauce and help it blend beautifully with the pasta.
• 1 tsp EACH dried basil, oregano, sugar: Classic Italian herbs plus sugar to balance acidity.
• 1 cup ricotta (optional): Adds creamy dollops that melt into luscious pockets throughout the dish.
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese: For that stretchy, melting cheese goodness on top.
• 1 cup parmesan, freshly grated (optional): Brings a nutty sharpness that cuts through richness.
• Finely chopped parsley or basil (optional garnish): For a fresh pop of color and flavor.
• 2 tsp fennel seeds (optional): Adds a warm, slightly sweet aromatic note.
• 1 tbsp paprika: Enhances color and a mild smoky taste.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 3/4 tsp chilli flakes (adjust to taste): Gives just a hint of heat.
• 2 tsp onion powder: Boosts savory depth without overpowering.
• 1 tsp EACH salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and brighten all flavors.

How to Make Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Pasta

Start by cooking the ziti according to package instructions, but make sure to drain it about two minutes before fully done. This slight undercooking means the pasta will finish baking in the oven without turning mushy. Once drained, return the pasta to the pot to keep it warm while you make the sauce.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) so it’s ready to go once your ziti is fully assembled. Having the oven at the right temperature ensures the cheese melts beautifully and develops that irresistible golden crust.

Step 3: Making the Sauce Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat, then toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about two minutes until the onions become translucent and the kitchen smells invitingly fragrant—this is the foundation of your sauce flavor.

Step 4: Cooking the Meat

Add the ground beef or pork to the pan and break it up as it cooks. When it’s just browned and no longer pink, sprinkle in your seasoning blend—paprika, fennel seeds, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper—and cook for another two minutes to let those spices bloom and mingle with the meat.

Step 5: Simmering the Sauce

Pour in the tomato passata along with half a cup of water, then stir in dried basil, oregano, and sugar. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it cook low and slow for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper here—remember it needs to be flavorful enough to season all the pasta.

Step 6: Combining Pasta and Sauce

Pour about two cups of the sauce into the pot with your cooked ziti and toss until every piece of pasta is coated with that rich, meaty sauce. This step ensures every bite stays tasty and moist once baked.

Step 7: Assembling the Bake

Transfer the sauced ziti to a 23x33cm (9×13″) baking dish and create little dollops of ricotta across the surface if you’re using it—these creamy pockets are a luxurious touch. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, then blanket everything with shredded mozzarella and farmhouse parmesan to form a gorgeous cheesy blanket.

Step 8: Baking to Perfection

Cover the dish loosely with foil to keep moisture in, then bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese topping bubbles and turns a lovely golden brown. This bake time is where the magic happens, as flavors deepen and textures meld.

Step 9: Serving Your Masterpiece

Once out of the oven, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or basil to brighten the dish with color and a fresh herb aroma. Serve right away while the cheese is still delectably melty and the sauce warm and comforting.

How to Serve Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish of fresh herbs like parsley or basil instantly lifts the dish, cutting through the richness with a natural freshness. You can also add a sprinkle of extra parmesan at the table for guests who love an extra cheesy punch.

Side Dishes

Since the baked ziti is hearty, lighter sides pair beautifully. A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or garlic roasted vegetables complement the creaminess and add a welcome crunch to each plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini casserole dishes—perfect for dinner parties or cozy meals where everyone gets their own perfectly baked mini casserole. You can even top each with a cherry tomato or a drizzle of olive oil for flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can refrigerate leftover baked ziti for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it a fantastic next-day meal that tastes even better when reheated.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Assemble your baked ziti but don’t bake it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it heats through.

Reheating

To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven set to 180°C (350°F), covering loosely with foil to preserve moisture and prevent burning the top cheese layer. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until the middle is piping hot. Alternatively, microwave portions individually for a quicker fix.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe?

Absolutely! While ziti or penne work best because their shapes hold the sauce well, rigatoni, shells, or even elbow macaroni can be delicious substitutes depending on what you have on hand.

Is it necessary to include ricotta in the recipe?

Ricotta adds a lovely creamy texture and balances the richness of the meat sauce, but it is optional. If you prefer, you can leave it out or even replace it with cottage cheese for a lighter alternative.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the meat and load up on vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, perhaps using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute to keep the hearty texture and protein content.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat is very mild and adjustable. The cayenne pepper or chili flakes add just a subtle kick, and you can reduce or omit them altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

What cheese works best for melting on top?

Mozzarella is the classic choice for its fantastic melting quality and mild flavor. You can also mix in provolone, fontina, or even a little cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe is a delicious way to bring comfort and joy around your dinner table. With its rich meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and perfectly baked pasta, it’s a recipe that invites smiles and seconds. I encourage you to try it out soon—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone asks for again and again!

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