Ziti Bake For Eight
A hearty baked ziti with rich cheese, savory sauce, and optional beef, perfect for family dinners and gatherings that enjoy comforting Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare ziti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook ground beef for 10 minutes until browned.
- Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, beaten egg, salt, and ground pepper.
- Add the cooked ziti and toss gently to coat well.
- Spoon the mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Pour remaining sauce evenly over the ziti mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting ground beef with Italian sausage or turkey. You can also use low-fat ricotta for a lighter version. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese with the ricotta. Garnishing with extra parsley before serving adds a fresh touch. This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a delightful alternative to classic Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ziti bake hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. It pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Mema'S Favorite 6 Cheese Lasagna. A glass of red wine complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti Bake For Eight contains roughly 716 calories, with 22g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1382mg per serving (60% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the ziti bake a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the ziti bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. You might need to extend the baking time slightly.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don't have ricotta cheese on hand, cottage cheese can be a suitable alternative. Blend it for a smoother texture. Additionally, you could use a combination of cream cheese and milk to mimic the consistency and flavor of ricotta.
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).