If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners, this baked ziti recipe is sure to impress. Combining tender pasta with a rich homemade tomato sauce, layers of gooey cheese, and unique ingredients like peas and hard-boiled eggs, this dish strikes a balance between sweet and savory flavors. Get ready to create a crowd-pleasing masterpiece!
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lb (0.9 kg) ziti, cooked
- 3 eggs, hard-boiled
- 1 lb (0.45 kg) ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) peas
- 1 pkg (16 oz / 454 g) shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup (3.5 oz / 100 g) Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (8 oz / 230 g) ricotta cheese
Ingredients for the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) tomato purée
- 4 tbsp sugar
- 2-3 sprigs fresh basil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 can (28 oz / 800 ml) water (use the empty tomato purée can)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Ziti
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté until lightly browned.
- Stir in the tomato purée.
- Fill the empty purée can with water and add it to the pot. Mix well.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, then add sugar and fresh basil. Continue to cook on low heat for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a separate pan, brown the ground beef and drain the excess fat.
- Chop the hard-boiled eggs into small pieces.
- Cook the ziti according to package instructions, leaving it slightly al dente. Drain and return to the pot.
- Add the browned beef and peas to the tomato sauce.
- Pour a small amount of sauce into the pasta pot and toss until lightly coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for layering.
- Spread a scoop of sauce evenly across the bottom of a 13×9-inch (33×23 cm) baking dish.
- Add half of the pasta in an even layer. Distribute the chopped eggs over the pasta.
- Dollop the ricotta cheese across the pasta layer until the entire cup is used.
- Spread half of the reserved sauce over the ricotta layer.
- Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella over the sauce.
- Add the remaining pasta and pour the rest of the sauce on top.
- Finish with the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and golden brown. For the last 10 minutes, remove the foil to allow the top to brown slightly.
- Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving to ensure the layers hold together when sliced.
This cheesy baked ziti is a delightful medley of textures and flavors. The sweet tang of the tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the savory cheeses and tender pasta, making every bite a joy. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
