Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked Ziti is more than just a classic Italian-American dish; it's a beloved comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this hearty pasta dish boasts layers of ziti pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. This time, we are making it for under $15 for 6-8 people!

A warm bowl of cheesy baked ziti, topped with tomato sauce and fresh herbs, perfect for a comforting meal.

Servings: 6-8 | Cook Time: 30 min | Budget: $13.92

Ingredients for Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

1. 1 LB Ground beef — $5.44

2. 1 box Ziti pasta — $0.98

3. 1 jar Marinara sauce — $1.67

4. 1 tub Ricotta cheese — $2.67

5. 2 Cups Mozzarella cheese — $1.89

6. 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese — $1.12

7. Italian seasoning — Pantry Staple

8. Salt & pepper — Pantry Staple

9. Basil (optional)

Total Used Cost : $13.92 Cost per Serving: $2.32

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.

3. In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease.

4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ground beef, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well coated.

5. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

   
   

   
   

Budget Breakdown:

Ground beef — $5.44

Ziti pasta, 16 oz — $0.98

Marinara pasta sauce, 23 oz — $1.67

Ricotta cheese, 15 oz — $2.67

Mozzarella cheese, 16 oz — $3.78

Parmesan cheese, 6 oz — $2.24

🛒 Total Grocery Cost: $16.78

Tips for the Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

• Use Quality Ingredients: The taste of baked ziti relies on the ingredients. Choose high-quality cheeses and a savory marinara sauce. For instance, a homemade sauce can elevate the flavor profile significantly.

  
  

• Customize Your Recipe: Add personal twists like cooked ground beef, sausage, sautéed spinach, or roasted mushrooms. Studies show that customizing recipes helps families connect over meals.

  
  

• Make It Ahead: Prepare your baked ziti in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Ensure it’s tightly covered with foil to retain moisture.

  
  

• Freeze for Later: This dish freezes beautifully! Wrap it well before baking, and when you’re ready for a meal, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

  
  

• Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella and ricotta are classic choices, consider adding provolone or gouda for a savory twist. A blend of different cheeses can add complexity to the dish.

  

  Golden-brown Baked Ziti with bubbling cheese and rich tomato sauce, fresh from the oven.