Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, satisfying pasta dish that everyone will flock to the table for, you’re in for a treat with this Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe. I absolutely love how this turns out—it’s like a hug in a casserole dish with its rich, savory meat sauce layered with gooey cheese and tender pasta. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or planning a weekend feast, this recipe is straightforward enough to make you feel like a kitchen rockstar without sweating the details. Stick with me, and I’ll share all my best tips to help you nail this crowd-pleaser every single time!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe shines because each ingredient plays a starring role—juicy meats, fresh cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together for a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. When shopping, look for quality sausage and fresh mozzarella to make a noticeable difference.

• Olive oil: Use a good quality oil for sautéing to add subtle richness without overpowering.
• Large onion: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked down; I prefer yellow onions here.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must—its aroma will fill your kitchen with wonderful scents.
• Italian sausage: This is key for that authentic flavor; you can choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
• Ground beef: Helps balance the sausage and adds hearty meatiness.
• Whole canned tomatoes with juice: Crushing them by hand releases lovely texture in the sauce.
• Tomato sauce or marinara sauce: Adds smoothness and extra tomato flavor.
• Italian seasoning: Blends herbs like oregano and basil to brighten the sauce.
• Red pepper flakes: Just a pinch to give the sauce a gentle kick; adjust to taste.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning; taste as you go!
• Ziti or mostaccioli pasta: Tubular pasta holds the sauce inside its hollow center—the magic happens here!
• Whole milk ricotta cheese: Provides creamy pockets of comfort throughout the dish.
• Mozzarella cheese (grated): For meltiness and stretch—use fresh or low-moisture, both work beautifully.
• Parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a sharp, nutty note that cuts through the richness.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese mixture for perfect texture.
• Freshly chopped parsley: A fresh, bright finish to sprinkle on top just before serving.

Variations

I like to mix things up with this Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe—it’s a versatile base that’s super forgiving. Feel free to personalize it to suit your taste, dietary needs, or just what’s in your fridge!

• Swap the Meats: I’ve made it with ground turkey for a lighter option, and it still satisfies that craving.
• Vegetarian Version: Try sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of meat—a delicious twist I use when guests prefer meatless meals.
• Spicy Twist: If you like heat, add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the meat sauce. My husband adores the spicier version.
• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: Mixing in provolone or fontina can add interesting depth—I’ve done this on special occasions and the richness is next level.

How to Make Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Build Your Flavor Base by Sautéing Onion and Garlic

Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot or deep skillet. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and let them soften gently—about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the kitchen start to smell incredible here; that’s the flavor foundation. Don’t rush this step; the sweetness from the onions melts into the sauce and makes all the difference.

Step 2: Brown the Italian Sausage and Ground Beef

Next, toss in the Italian sausage and ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, stirring frequently. You’re aiming for that perfect browned crust that adds depth. Once cooked through, drain most of the fat but leave behind just enough to keep the sauce juicy and flavorful. This trick keeps the ziti from becoming dry later.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce for Deep Flavor

Add the canned whole tomatoes with their juice, the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. I like to stir occasionally and crush the tomatoes with my spoon as it cooks to build a hearty, rustic texture. After simmering, scoop out about 3 to 4 cups of the sauce into a separate bowl and let it cool—this will coat your pasta later without drying it out.

Step 4: Mix the Cheese Filling and Combine with Pasta

In a separate bowl, stir together ricotta, 2 cups of mozzarella, parmesan, egg, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Don’t overmix here; you want some nice lumps of cheese to stay intact—it adds to the texture when baked. Meanwhile, cook your pasta just shy of al dente, then rinse under cool water to stop the cooking. Toss the pasta gently into the cheese mixture to coat without smooshing it completely. Then add the cooled meat sauce and mix again, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Layer and Bake Your Ziti to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large casserole dish, spread half of the pasta mixture, top with half the remaining meat sauce, and sprinkle half the remaining mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers once more. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving; this little pause helps everything settle so your ziti slices beautifully and every bite is luscious.

How to Serve Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley right before serving for a pop of color and freshness—it brightens this rich dish beautifully. Sometimes, I’ll add a few red pepper flakes on the side for anyone who wants an extra kick.

Side Dishes

This baked ziti pairs amazingly well with a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are my go-to because they’re perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or special get-togethers, I like serving the baked ziti in individual ramekins—this makes it feel extra special and easy to portion. Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil takes it over the top. Trust me, your guests will think you spent hours preparing it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let leftovers cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer to airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it keeps well for up to 4 days—I love having it ready for easy lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. I recommend assembling the dish but holding off on baking—wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual for a convenient make-ahead meal.

Reheating

For leftovers, I reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture, until warmed through—usually about 15-20 minutes. Microwave works too if you’re short on time, but the oven gives you that fresh-baked texture I love.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Ziti with Meat and Cheese Recipe is one I return to time and time again because it hits that perfect balance of hearty, cheesy comfort food without demanding complicated steps. My family goes crazy for it, and I love how it brings everyone together around the table with minimal fuss. If you’re looking for a delicious crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm, homemade embrace, this recipe is just what you need—go ahead, give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your kitchen!

Print