20 The Best Italian Baked Ziti Recipe Discover Culinary Perfection!
Published on: Mar 18, 2024
Baked ziti is a classic Italian dish that has become a staple in many households. With its layers of cheese, meat, and pasta, it's no wonder why this dish is a crowd-pleaser. But not all baked ziti recipes are created equal. In fact, there are countless variations out there, each claiming to be the best. So how do you know which one to choose? Look no further, as we have the best Italian baked ziti recipe that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Olive Oil, Garlic Cloves, Onion, Pork Mince
This hearty and comforting dish combines the flavors of beer can chicken with the classic Italian flavors of ziti and sausage. The chicken is cooked with a can of beer and then shredded and mixed with cooked ziti, sausage, and a rich tomato sauce. The whole dish is then topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese. It's the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Marinara Sauce, Ziti, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
This simple and delicious recipe is a staple in many households. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then shredded and mixed with cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian cheeses. The combination of flavors is unbeatable and the beer can chicken adds a unique twist to this classic dish. Serve it up with a side of garlic bread and you've got a complete meal that will satisfy any appetite.
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Chicken Alfredo Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Cooked Chicken, Alfredo Sauce, Shredded
Take your baked ziti to the next level with this creamy and indulgent chicken alfredo version. The chicken is cooked with a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti and a rich and creamy alfredo sauce. The combination of flavors is absolutely divine and will have your taste buds singing. Serve it up with a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
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Keyword Italian Baked Ziti, Italian Baked Ziti with...
Main Ingredients: Pasta, Tomato Sauce, Egg, Ricotta Cheese, Cheese
Looking for a healthier version of baked ziti? This recipe combines the classic flavors with a healthier twist by using whole wheat pasta and lean chicken breast. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with whole wheat ziti, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian cheeses. It's a guilt-free version of a beloved dish that doesn't skimp on flavor.
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Easy Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Olive Oil, Garlic, Onion, Ground Beef, Marinara
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal, this recipe is for you. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then shredded and mixed with cooked ziti and a jar of your favorite marinara sauce. Top it off with some shredded mozzarella cheese and bake until golden and bubbly. It's a no-fuss meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Cheesy Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Salt, Olive Oil, Medium Onion, Garlic, Bulk
This recipe takes baked ziti to a whole new level of cheesiness. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian cheeses. But the real star of this dish is the layer of melted provolone cheese on top. It adds a deliciously gooey and rich layer of flavor to the dish that is simply irresistible.
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5-Ingredient Italian Sausage and Kale Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Ground Italian Sausage, Garlic, Kale Leaves
This recipe is perfect for those days when you want a delicious meal but don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, Italian sausage, kale, and a jar of marinara sauce. It's a simple and flavorful meal that can be on the table in no time.
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Homemade Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Sauce, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Oregano, Thyme, Italian
There's nothing quite like a homemade meal, and this recipe for baked ziti is no exception. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with homemade ziti, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian cheeses. The homemade pasta adds an extra level of flavor to the dish and will have your guests raving about it all night.
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Meatless Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Plum Tomatoes, Tomato Paste, Garlic, Medium Onion
If you're looking for a vegetarian version of baked ziti, this recipe is a must-try. The chicken is replaced with meatless chicken strips that are cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, marinara sauce, and a blend of Italian cheeses. Even meat lovers will enjoy this flavorful and hearty dish.
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Baked Ziti With Italian Sausage Casserole
Main Ingredients: Italian Sausage, Yellow Onion, Minced Garlic, Ziti
This recipe takes the classic baked ziti to a whole new level by transforming it into a casserole. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The whole dish is then topped with a layer of breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese before being baked to perfection. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd.
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Baked Ziti with Parmesan Italian Sausage (print)
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Garlic, Onion, Italian Sausage, Marinara Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of beer can chicken with the classic Italian sausage and parmesan cheese. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then shredded and mixed with cooked ziti and a creamy and flavorful parmesan sauce. The result is a rich and indulgent dish that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
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Italian Sausage Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ground Italian Sausage, Onion, Bell Pepper, Carrots
If you love the flavors of Italian sausage, then this recipe is for you. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible and will have everyone going back for seconds.
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Cheesy Baked Ziti with Sausage and Peppers
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Bulk Italian Sausage, Olive Oil, Red Bell
This recipe combines the classic flavors of baked ziti with the delicious addition of sausage and peppers. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, Italian sausage, peppers, and a blend of Italian cheeses. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is a classic version of baked ziti that is sure to become a family favorite. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The whole dish is then topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese for a cheesy and delicious finish.
If you're a fan of spicy food, then this recipe is a must-try. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, spicy Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The result is a dish with a kick that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something bold and flavorful.
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Italian Sausage and Kale Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Ground Italian Sausage, Minced Garlic, Kale
This recipe is a healthier twist on classic baked ziti by using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, and kale. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with whole wheat ziti, Italian sausage, kale, and a rich tomato sauce. It's a guilt-free version of a beloved dish that doesn't skimp on flavor.
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Ricotta Baked Ziti
Main Ingredients: Ricotta Cheese, Olive Oil, Mozzarella Cheese, Grated
If you love the creamy and rich flavors of ricotta cheese, then this recipe is for you. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The result is a dish that is rich and indulgent and will have you going back for seconds.
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Three-Cheese Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
Main Ingredients: Ziti, Ground Italian Sausage, Olive Oil, Shallot
This recipe takes the classic baked ziti to a whole new level by using three different types of cheese. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, Italian sausage, and a blend of mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta cheeses. The result is a dish that is bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness.
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Easy Baked Ziti with Spicy Italian Sausage
Main Ingredients: Hot Italian Sausages, Olive Oil, Jalapeno Pepper, White
If you're a fan of spicy food, then this recipe is a must-try. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, spicy Italian sausage, and a flavorful tomato sauce. The result is a dish with a kick that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something bold and flavorful.
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Baked Ziti With Sausage
Main Ingredients: Italian Sausage, Onion, Garlic, Carrot, Olive Oil
This recipe is a simple and delicious version of baked ziti that is perfect for any occasion. The chicken is cooked on a can of beer and then mixed with cooked ziti, sausage, and a rich tomato sauce. The whole dish is then topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella cheese for a cheesy and satisfying finish.
Ingredients for the Best Italian Baked Ziti
Pasta
The key to a perfect baked ziti is using the right type of pasta. Ziti is a type of long, tube-shaped pasta that is perfect for this dish. Its wide diameter and ridges help hold onto the sauce and cheese, creating a perfect bite every time. If you can't find ziti, you can also use penne, which is similar in shape and size.
Sauce
The sauce is the heart of this dish and it's important to use a good quality one. Marinara sauce is the traditional choice for baked ziti, but you can also use a meat sauce for a heartier option. When choosing a marinara sauce, look for one that is made with real tomatoes and not just tomato puree.
Cheese
No baked ziti is complete without a generous amount of cheese. Our recipe calls for a blend of mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Mozzarella adds that classic stringy, melty texture while ricotta adds a creamy richness. You can also add some parmesan or pecorino Romano for a flavorful kick.
Steps for the Perfect Baked Ziti
Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions, but make sure to cook it al dente. This means the pasta should still have a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will turn mushy once baked in the oven.
Make the Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, cook some ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Then add in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. This will help infuse the meat flavor into the sauce.
Layer it Up
In a greased baking dish, start layering the cooked pasta, sauce, and cheese. Start with a layer of pasta, then add a layer of sauce, followed by a layer of mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Repeat until all the ingredients are used up, making sure to end with a layer of cheese on top.
Bake and Enjoy
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy the deliciousness of the best Italian baked ziti.
In conclusion, this Italian baked ziti recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover. With its perfect balance of pasta, sauce, and cheese, it's a dish that is sure to please. So next time you're craving some comfort food, give this recipe a try and taste for yourself why it's the best.