Grandma’s Baked Ziti Recipe: So Good It’ll Make You Want to Slap Your Mama

There’s something about Grandma’s baked ziti that makes it unforgettable—so rich and flavorful, you’ll be tempted to slap your mama after just one bite! This baked ziti recipe is the epitome of comfort food. Each forkful is loaded with tender pasta, melty mozzarella, savory meat sauce, and that signature sprinkle of Italian herbs that make it taste like it’s straight from an old-world kitchen. But more than just its incredible flavor, this dish carries a sense of warmth and nostalgia, reminding us of family gatherings and those unforgettable meals shared with loved ones.

Photo byDalle 3

I first tasted Grandma’s baked ziti at a family reunion when I was a child. It was a Sunday afternoon, and the smell of garlic and tomato sauce filled the air. One bite was all it took for me to be hooked. The gooey, melted cheese combined with perfectly cooked pasta and her secret homemade marinara sauce made this ziti unforgettable. I begged her to show me the recipe, and now I’m sharing it with you because I know you’ll love it as much as I do!

If you’re looking for the best baked ziti recipe out there, this is it. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that will make you the star of your next family gathering. Trust me, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds)!

Cultural Origins of Baked Ziti Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that has found a special place in many households. Originating in Southern Italy, ziti pasta (the name means “bride” in Italian) was often served at weddings and large gatherings. When Italian immigrants brought the dish to the U.S., they made it their own by adding more robust sauces, meats, and, of course, plenty of cheese. Today, baked ziti is synonymous with comfort food and is the perfect meal for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a bowl, mix the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, and ¼ cup of Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the ziti: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Layer half of the cooked ziti, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining sauce. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a golden crust, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Ziti:

• Go for fresh herbs: If you have fresh basil or oregano, add it to the sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• Switch up the meat: You can use Italian sausage for a more robust flavor or keep it vegetarian by using sautéed vegetables like spinach and mushrooms.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking the ziti until just al dente helps it hold its shape in the oven and not get mushy.

For a gluten-free option, simply swap the ziti for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Want to make it low-carb? You can even use zucchini noodles as a healthier alternative.

Pairing Suggestions:

This hearty baked ziti is best served with a simple side salad and garlic bread to mop up all that sauce. A glass of red wine, like Chianti or a rich Zinfandel, complements the flavors perfectly. You can even sprinkle a little crushed red pepper for those who enjoy a kick of heat.

Call to Action:

Did you enjoy this mouthwatering recipe? Let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to share this baked ziti recipe with your friends and family, and follow me for more delicious recipes just like this one.

Sources:

Family Recipe