Durazzo’s Classic Baked Ziti

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the cheesy, saucy goodness of baked ziti. This Italian-American favorite combines al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, and layers of gooey cheese to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. At Durazzo’s Deli, we believe in celebrating the joy of sharing good food with loved ones, and baked ziti is a dish that does just that.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or prepping meals for the week, baked ziti is a versatile recipe that always delivers. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so special and how you can make it shine in your own kitchen.

What Makes Baked Ziti So Special?

Baked ziti is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. With its layers of tender pasta, tangy tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, it’s a dish that appeals to everyone. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its simplicity—it’s easy to prepare but feels indulgent enough for special occasions.

At Durazzo’s, we recommend using high-quality ingredients to elevate the flavors of this classic dish. Our house-made ricotta, freshly grated Parmesan, and authentic Italian pasta make all the difference.

Durazzo’s Classic Baked Ziti Recipe

Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of ziti or penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 pound of ground Italian sausage or ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) of Durazzo’s marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground Italian sausage or beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
3. Combine the Sauce Ingredients:Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Mix the Ricotta Layer:In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
5. Assemble the Dish:Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add half of the cooked pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, spreading it gently. Pour half of the remaining sauce over the ricotta layer, then repeat the process with the remaining pasta, ricotta, and sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection:Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

1. Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality marinara sauce and cheese will elevate the flavors of the dish.
2. Customize the Meat: While Italian sausage adds a lot of flavor, you can use ground beef, turkey, or even go meatless by adding sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so it’s important to slightly undercook it during boiling.
4. Make It Ahead: Baked ziti is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble it in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. Freeze for Later: This dish freezes beautifully! Assemble the ziti, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake straight from the freezer at 375°F, adding about 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.

Pairing Suggestions for a Full Italian Feast

While baked ziti is satisfying on its own, you can turn it into a full meal with a few complementary dishes:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion for scooping up that extra sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ziti.
• Wine Pairing: A bold red wine, such as Chianti or Barbera, enhances the savory flavors of the dish.

Why Baked Ziti is a Crowd-Pleaser

Baked ziti’s versatility and universal appeal make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a large group or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s easy to adapt with your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences.

At Durazzo’s Deli, we’re passionate about helping you create memorable meals. Stop by to pick up fresh cheeses, pasta, and sauces to bring your baked ziti to life!