Ziti Bake Or Lazy Lasagna
A comforting baked pasta dish featuring ziti, ground meat, ricotta, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make pasta according to package directions; drain.
- Set aside. In the same pot, cook meat until well browned.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove pot from heat.
- Stir in Ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, and half of the sauce.
- Mix together and stir in pasta. Toss gently to coat.
- Spoon into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Pour remaining sauce evenly over the pasta mixture.
- Sprinkle with shredded Mozzarella.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of béchamel sauce between the pasta and cheese. If you're short on time, pre-cooked pasta can work just as well. You can substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. For a twist, try using different types of cheese, such as provolone or gouda, to elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Ziti Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. For a comforting experience, offer a side of Neapolitan Spaghetti Sauce for those who enjoy a little extra sauce. It's perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can be made ahead of time and easily transported.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ziti Bake Or Lazy Lasagna contains roughly 469 calories, with 23g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1538mg per serving (67% 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?
Yes, you can assemble the Ziti Bake a day in advance. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Can I freeze Ziti Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have Ricotta on hand, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth, or even a mix of cream cheese and sour cream for a richer flavor. Greek yogurt can also be a healthier alternative, providing a similar creaminess while adding some tang.
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).