Sbarro Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that has won hearts with its rich flavors and cheesy goodness. Known for its hearty tomato sauce, tender pasta, and melted mozzarella, this recipe brings a slice of New York pizzeria magic right to our kitchen. It’s the perfect meal for family dinners or when we crave something warm and satisfying.
We love how simple ingredients come together to create such a memorable dish. Making Sbarro Ziti at home means we can enjoy that authentic taste anytime without the wait. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and bring a beloved favorite to our table.
Ingredients
To recreate the authentic Sbarro Ziti experience at home, we will gather simple yet flavorful ingredients that capture the essence of this classic Italian-American dish.
For the Ziti Pasta
To ensure the perfect texture that holds up under the rich sauce, use:
- 1 pound dried ziti pasta
- Salt for boiling water
For the Meat Sauce
Our signature sauce is rich and hearty, packed with robust flavors. We blend these ingredients precisely:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Lean, 80/20 ratio preferred |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces | Canned, no salt added |
| Tomato paste | 6 ounces | Adds thickness and depth |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | For classic Italian flavor |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Adds aromatic freshness |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon | Optional for mild heat |
For the Cheese Mixture
The creamy cheese blend provides the luscious texture Sbarro Ziti is famous for:
- 2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping and Garnish
A golden melted blanket of cheese finishes the dish beautifully, accented with fresh herbs:
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
To recreate the authentic Sbarro Ziti experience in our kitchen, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture, flavor, and presentation.
- Large Pot
Use this for boiling the dried ziti pasta. We need ample space to allow the pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander
Essential for draining the pasta thoroughly after boiling, preventing excess water from diluting the sauce.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
Perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions and garlic. A wide surface ensures even cooking and caramelization.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
We rely on these to stir ingredients gently without scratching our pans.
- Mixing Bowl
We combine the creamy cheese mixture in this bowl for smooth consistency before layering.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
This size is ideal for layering the ziti, sauce, and cheese blend for baking. A glass or ceramic dish works best to heat evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Precise measurements help us balance flavors and maintain the recipe’s authenticity.
- Oven Mitts
Safety first when handling hot dishes from the oven.
- Grater
For freshly grating Parmesan and mozzarella if not using pre-shredded cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil pasta evenly without sticking |
| Colander | Drain pasta completely |
| Large Skillet/Sauté Pan | Brown meat and sauté aromatics |
| Wooden Spoon/Silicone Spatula | Stir ingredients gently |
| Mixing Bowl | Combine cheese mixture smoothly |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Layer and bake the ziti casserole |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensure accurate ingredient proportions |
| Oven Mitts | Handle hot cookware safely |
| Grater | Freshly grate cheeses for optimal melting |
We find that organizing your kitchen with these tools ready will streamline the cooking process, making the preparation of Sbarro Ziti efficient and enjoyable every time.
Prep Work
To create an authentic Sbarro Ziti experience, thorough prep work is essential. By methodically preparing each component, we ensure every layer delivers that rich, comforting flavor classic to this beloved dish.
Preparing the Meat Sauce
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the aroma.
Next, add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and brown evenly until no pink remains, roughly 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Pour in 2 cups of crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, and season with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop depth and richness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Heat in skillet |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Ground beef | 1 pound | Brown in skillet |
| Crushed tomatoes | 2 cups | Add to sauce |
| Tomato paste | 1 tablespoon | Add for richness |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
Boiling the Ziti Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add 1 pound of dried ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 9–11 minutes, until al dente. The pasta should be tender yet firm to the bite.
Drain the ziti in a colander and briefly rinse under warm water to stop the cooking process. This step helps prevent sticking and keeps the pasta texture perfect for baking.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl combine:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mix vigorously until smooth and creamy. This cheese mixture will add the signature creamy layer that distinguishes Sbarro Ziti. The fresh parsley infuses a subtle brightness balancing the rich cheeses.
By completing these prep steps carefully and precisely, we’re set for assembling our Sbarro Ziti into a cheesy, saucy masterpiece that tastes just like the pizzeria classic.
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to assemble and bake our Sbarro Ziti Recipe into a delicious, cheesy comfort dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Layering the Ziti
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when the dish goes in.
- Start by spreading a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce evenly on the bottom of your 9×13-inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and adds flavor to every bite.
- Add half of the cooked al dente ziti pasta over the sauce, spreading it evenly.
- Dollop and gently spread half of the creamy cheese mixture over the pasta layer. This includes ricotta, beaten egg, and Parmesan to create a luscious texture.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese to cover the cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, pasta, cheese mixture, and mozzarella until all ingredients are used. End with a final topping of mozzarella and a light dusting of Parmesan.
- Finish by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and fresh aroma.
Baking Instructions
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and prevent excess browning.
- Place the dish on the center rack of the oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and turns a golden brown.
- Use oven mitts to carefully remove the dish from the oven; let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 375°F (190°C) | – | |
| Bake covered | 375°F (190°C) | 25 minutes | Keeps moisture inside |
| Bake uncovered | 375°F (190°C) | 10-15 minutes | Achieves golden bubbly cheese |
| Rest before serving | Room Temp | 10 minutes | Improves texture and flavor meld |
By carefully layering and baking our Sbarro Ziti, we create a dish that is wonderfully saucy, cheesy, and perfectly cooked throughout, bringing the magic of a New York pizzeria right into our home.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Sbarro Ziti experience, thoughtful serving suggestions heighten the rich flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are our top tips for serving this hearty Italian-American comfort dish:
- Complement with fresh greens. A crisp side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the rich, cheesy layers of ziti. We suggest a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing for brightness.
- Add warm, crusty bread. Serve with slices of buttery garlic bread or a rustic Italian loaf. The crunch and aroma perfectly contrast the creamy baked pasta.
- Pair with wine. A glass of medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese enhances the tomato sauce’s acidity and melds beautifully with the mozzarella and Parmesan toppings.
- Include a light appetizer. Start with bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil to set the stage for the main course.
- Offer fresh herb garnishes. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on each serving to add vibrancy and fresh herbal notes, reinforcing the signature Sbarro Ziti taste.
| Serving Element | Purpose/Benefit | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Salad | Balances richness and adds freshness | Arugula with lemon dressing, mixed greens |
| Crusty Bread | Adds texture and complements cheese flavors | Garlic bread, rustic Italian loaf |
| Wine Pairing | Enhances tomato sauce and cheese complexity | Chianti, Sangiovese |
| Light Appetizer | Prepares palate and adds contrast | Bruschetta with tomato and basil |
| Fresh Herb Garnish | Adds color and fresh herbal aroma | Basil, parsley |
“Serving Sbarro Ziti with bright greens and crusty bread creates a meal that delights both the palate and the eyes.“
When plating, we recommend portioning the ziti generously to showcase the layers of sauce and melted cheese. Using a wide shallow bowl highlights the textures and enables easy access to each delicious bite.
By following these serving suggestions, we can bring the warmth and spirit of a New York pizzeria right into our dining room, making every meal a memorable one.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Proper make-ahead and storage techniques ensure our Sbarro Ziti stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to serve whenever we want a comforting meal. Here’s how to handle leftovers and prepare in advance without compromising taste or texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Assemble the dish fully but hold off on baking if preparing for later. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent moisture loss.
- Refrigerate the unbaked Sbarro Ziti for up to 24 hours before baking.
- When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and foil, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is bubbly and golden, approximately 35-40 minutes.
Refrigerating Cooked Sbarro Ziti
- Let the baked ziti cool to room temperature within two hours of cooking to avoid bacterial growth.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave portions covered with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
- For longer storage, freeze Sbarro Ziti immediately after assembly or after baking and cooling.
- Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating following the baking instructions above.
| Storage Method | Preparation Step | Storage Time | Reheating Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unbaked, refrigerated | Assemble and cover tightly | Up to 24 hours | Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes |
| Cooked, refrigerated | Cool, cover airtight | Up to 4 days | Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave in intervals |
| Cooked, frozen | Wrap tightly, freeze | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight, then bake as above |
Key Tips for Maintaining Quality
- Always use airtight containers or multiple layers of wrap to avoid freezer burn and drying out.
- When reheating, covering with foil retains moisture and prevents the cheese from drying.
- Avoid reheating multiple times; reheat only the portion needed for the best taste and texture.
- Fresh herbs and extra cheese added just before serving give the reheated dish the “just-baked” freshness.
“With careful make-ahead and storage, our homemade Sbarro Ziti keeps the same rich cheesy goodness and hearty sauce texture as when freshly baked!”
By following these make-ahead and storage tips we guarantee the authentic flavor and comforting experience of Sbarro Ziti anytime we crave a taste of that classic Italian-American pizzeria magic.
Conclusion
Making Sbarro Ziti at home lets us bring a slice of New York’s iconic pizzeria flavor straight to our tables. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that fits perfectly into our busy lives without sacrificing taste or comfort.
Whether we’re cooking for family, friends, or just ourselves, this recipe offers a satisfying, cheesy, and hearty meal that warms both the kitchen and the heart. Let’s keep this classic Italian-American favorite in our regular rotation and enjoy every delicious bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sbarro Ziti?
Sbarro Ziti is a classic Italian-American baked pasta dish featuring ziti pasta, rich tomato meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and melted mozzarella. It’s known for its hearty, comforting flavors and is inspired by popular New York pizzerias.
What ingredients do I need to make Sbarro Ziti?
You’ll need dried ziti pasta, ground beef, olive oil, onions, garlic, crushed tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, ricotta, eggs, and fresh herbs. These basic ingredients combine to create the dish’s signature rich flavors.
What equipment is necessary to prepare Sbarro Ziti?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling, a colander, a skillet for cooking meat, mixing bowls, a 9×13-inch baking dish, measuring cups, a grater, and oven mitts to safely handle the hot casserole.
How do I prepare the meat sauce for Sbarro Ziti?
Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil, brown the ground beef, then simmer with crushed tomatoes and seasonings until thickened. This creates the rich base of the dish.
How should I cook the ziti pasta for this recipe?
Boil dried ziti in salted water until al dente (firm but cooked through), then drain thoroughly before layering with sauce and cheese mixtures.
What is the best way to assemble Sbarro Ziti?
Layer meat sauce, cooked ziti, creamy cheese mixture, and shredded mozzarella repeatedly in a baking dish. Finish with mozzarella and fresh herbs on top before baking.
How long should I bake Sbarro Ziti?
Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes to retain moisture, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it rest before serving.
What are good side dishes to serve with Sbarro Ziti?
Pair it with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, light appetizers like bruschetta, and a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese to balance the rich flavors.
Can I make Sbarro Ziti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it unbaked and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve for best flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers of Sbarro Ziti?
Cool leftovers quickly, store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat thoroughly, adding fresh herbs or extra cheese if desired.