Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why This Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti Is a Must-Try
- How Elena Cooks Brought This Recipe to Life
- The Secret to Making the Perfect Baked Ziti for Dinner
- Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
- Making It Work for Easy Weeknight Dinners
- Tips to Elevate Your Easy Recipes for Dinner
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti is the kind of hearty, satisfying dish that makes easy recipes for dinner truly stand out. With layers of flavor, cheese, and a rich meat sauce, it’s a perfect comfort food to feed a hungry family or a crowd. Whether it’s your first time making a casserole or you’re a seasoned home cook, this recipe delivers a cozy meal without the hassle.
Why This Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti Is a Must-Try
When you’re searching for the ultimate easy recipes for dinner, look no further than this comforting baked ziti. Elena from Elena Cooks created this dish for those moments when you want something hearty and homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s cheesy, creamy, and the definition of indulgence—perfect for both weeknights and weekends.
How Elena Cooks Brought This Recipe to Life
Inspired by cozy family dinners, Elena knew this recipe had to check all the boxes: quick prep, simple ingredients, and big flavor. What makes this one different from other easy meal recipes is the blend of Italian sausage and ricotta, giving it that classic Italian-American flair. With the magic of oven baking, it turns into a golden, bubbly masterpiece.
The Secret to Making the Perfect Baked Ziti for Dinner
The key to nailing this recipe lies in balance. Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente is best since it will finish cooking in the oven. Make sure to mix the ricotta layer well so every bite gets that creamy texture. This baked ziti works wonders for easy casserole recipes because it’s so adaptable and forgiving. Even better? It tastes great as leftovers the next day!
Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal
Pair this ziti with a simple green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. If you’re going for a themed dinner night, serve with a sparkling Italian soda or a glass of red wine. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that goes with just about anything, whether it’s a weeknight treat or a casual dinner party dish.
Making It Work for Easy Weeknight Dinners
One of the best things about this baked ziti is that you can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake it when you’re ready. That’s what makes it one of the most reliable easy meal recipes around. If you’re juggling a busy schedule, prep this dish on Sunday and pop it into the oven midweek. Dinner solved!
Tips to Elevate Your Easy Recipes for Dinner
If you’re already loving easy recipes for dinner like this one, try adding your own twist. Some like to add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes. The baked ziti is a great canvas for experimenting, making it one of the most flexible easy meal recipes in your rotation.
Notes & Tips
Don’t skip the resting time after baking—it helps everything settle and makes serving easier. You can freeze individual portions for quick meals later. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey and low-fat cheeses. No matter how you adapt it, this recipe remains one of the most delicious easy casserole recipes you’ll ever try.
Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe for Dinner
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 (28 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 16 oz ziti pasta
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add ground beef and sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and half the Parmesan cheese until combined.
- Add cooked pasta and half of the meat sauce to the ricotta mixture. Stir until well coated.
- Spread half the pasta mixture in the baking dish. Layer with half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with remaining pasta mixture and meat sauce. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
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