Baked Ziti Supreme
Creamy baked ziti with savory ground beef, melted mozzarella, and rich pasta sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and chopped onion until beef is browned, stirring to separate meat.
- Pour off excess fat. Stir in pasta sauce, 1 cup of shredded Mozzarella cheese, and cooked macaroni.
- Spoon the mixture into a 3-quart shallow baking dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining Mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil and oregano. If you want a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based substitute. You can also use ziti or penne pasta instead of macaroni for a different texture. For creaminess, add a layer of ricotta cheese before baking, similar to how it's used in Pasta Siciliana.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Ziti Supreme pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside Crockett Minestrone Soup for a hearty Italian-inspired dinner. For a fun twist, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or serve with a side of steamed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ziti Supreme contains roughly 925 calories, with 34g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1646mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the baked ziti ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze baked ziti?
Absolutely! Baked ziti freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 60-75 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
What can I add to make this dish more vegetable-rich?
Incorporating vegetables is a great idea! You can add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the meat mixture. Another option is to layer cooked vegetables between the pasta and cheese, enhancing the nutritional value and flavor without compromising the dish's heartiness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).