There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic baked ziti, especially when it’s loaded with rich, savory ragu sauce. This dish brings together tender pasta, hearty meat sauce, and melted cheese into one irresistible casserole. It’s the perfect meal for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
Our ragu baked ziti recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian flavors while keeping the process straightforward. We’ll guide you through creating a robust ragu that simmers to perfection, ensuring every bite is packed with depth and warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Ragu Baked Ziti, we need to gather fresh ingredients that build rich flavors and a satisfying texture. Below are the essentials divided into components to simplify preparation.
For the Ragu Sauce
Our robust ragu sauce is the heart of this dish, packed with savory richness and depth:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 cup carrot finely diced
- 1 cup celery finely diced
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup red wine (optional, but adds complexity)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Pasta and Cheese Mixture
The pasta and cheeses add creamy layers of texture that complement the ragu perfectly:
- 1 pound ziti pasta (or penne as an alternative)
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg (to bind the ricotta mixture)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional for freshness)
Additional Ingredients
To finish and enhance the dish’s aroma and presentation:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella for topping
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
- Extra Parmesan for serving
| Ingredient Category | Key Components | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ragu Sauce | Olive oil, onion, garlic, ground beef | Simmer slowly for deep flavor |
| Carrot, celery, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste | Essential for classic ragu | |
| Red wine, oregano, basil, salt, pepper | Adds complexity and seasoning | |
| Pasta and Cheese Mixture | Ziti, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg | Creamy texture is key |
| Parsley | Optional herb for freshness | |
| Additional Ingredients | Extra mozzarella topping, fresh basil | Finishing touches |
This clear division helps us focus on each component while preparing our rich, comforting Ragu Baked Ziti.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our rich Ragu Baked Ziti flawlessly, having the right equipment on hand streamlines every step from simmering the ragu to baking the pasta. Below is a detailed list of the essential tools to ensure consistent results and ease throughout the cooking process.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large sauté pan | To cook the ragu sauce ingredients evenly |
| Wooden spoon | For stirring the sauce without scratching |
| Large pot | To boil the ziti pasta to al dente |
| Colander | To drain the cooked pasta |
| Mixing bowl | To combine ricotta, egg, and herbs |
| 9×13-inch baking dish | For assembling and baking the ziti |
| Oven mitts | To safely handle the hot baking dish |
| Cheese grater | To grate fresh Parmesan and mozzarella cheese |
| Measuring cups & spoons | To measure ingredients accurately |
We suggest these tools based on their size and durability to handle the richness and volume of this classic Italian dish. Having the sauté pan and large pot sized appropriately helps maintain heat control and prevents overcrowding, which are key to achieving the proper texture in both ragu and pasta.
For an authentic baked ziti experience, ensure your baking dish is ovenproof and roomy enough to layer pasta, sauce, and cheese uniformly. This supports even heat distribution and the signature golden, bubbly cheese crust.
“A kitchen well-equipped is halfway to a perfect Ragu Baked Ziti dinner.” Let’s continue with the next steps after assembling these essential tools.
Preparation
Let’s dive into the essential steps to create our rich Ragu Baked Ziti. Mastering the Preparation will set the foundation for a hearty and flavorful dish everyone will love.
Preparing the Ragu Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 finely chopped onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced carrot, and 1 diced celery stalk. Sauté until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned evenly, about 7 minutes.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in 1 cup of dry red wine, scraping the pan’s bottom to deglaze and combine all browned bits.
- Add 28 ounces of canned crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let the ragu simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking concentrates flavors perfectly.
“A well-cooked ragu is the soul of our Baked Ziti, providing every bite with layers of rich and savory satisfaction.”
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 1 pound of ziti pasta, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Cook the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions to keep it slightly al dente since it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and drizzle with a little olive oil, tossing gently to prevent clumping.
| Step | Detail | Time/Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Boil water | Heavily salted | Until rolling boil |
| Cook ziti | Al dente (slightly firm) | 2 minutes less than package instructions |
| Drain & toss | Olive oil to prevent sticking | 1 tablespoon |
Preparing Cheese Mixture
- In a medium mixing bowl combine:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Crack in 1 large egg and add 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for brightness).
- Stir all ingredients together until smooth and creamy, ensuring the egg binds the cheeses for a luscious filling.
“This cheese blend adds the signature creaminess and gooey melt we crave in every forkful.”
With the ragu, pasta, and cheese components perfectly prepped, we’re ready to assemble our Ragu Baked Ziti for baking.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to combine the components and transform our Ragu Baked Ziti ingredients into a bubbling, flavorful masterpiece.
Combining Pasta with Ragu Sauce
- Drain the ziti pasta thoroughly using a colander once it is cooked al dente.
- Return the pasta to the pot while it is still warm to help it absorb flavors.
- Gently fold the prepared ragu sauce into the warm pasta using a wooden spoon, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated.
- Spoon in the ricotta cheese mixture and fold again carefully, blending the creamy texture without breaking the pasta.
- Mix until the pasta, ragu, and cheese coat each other evenly creating the base for our baked dish.
Assembling the Baked Ziti
| Step | Action | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) | Ensure even baking temperature |
| 2 | Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish | Use olive oil or nonstick spray |
| 3 | Spread half of the pasta and sauce mixture evenly | Creates balanced layers |
| 4 | Sprinkle 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese over the pasta | Adds melty, stringy texture |
| 5 | Spread the remaining pasta mixture on top | Seal layers for optimal flavor blending |
| 6 | Top with remaining 1½ cups mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan cheese | Ensures rich cheesy crust when baked |
Baking the Dish
- Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to avoid over-browning of the cheese during the initial baking phase.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
- Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to settle and the dish to firm up perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Ragu Baked Ziti experience, pairing it thoughtfully with complementary dishes and sides will create a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving tips that perfectly match the rich and savory notes of this classic Italian favorite.
Recommended Side Dishes
- Fresh Green Salad
A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the baked ziti. The acidity refreshes the palate.
- Garlic Bread or Focaccia
Warm, buttery garlic bread or herb-infused focaccia offers a satisfyingly crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta and melted cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables
Try roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus seasoned with olive oil and Italian herbs for a healthy, flavorful addition.
Beverage Pairings
| Beverage Type | Description | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Red Wine | Chianti, Sangiovese, or Barbera | The acidity cuts through the richness of the ragu sauce |
| Sparkling Water | With a slice of lemon or lime | Refreshes the palate without overpowering flavors |
| Italian Soda | Lemon or blood orange flavor | Adds a sweet citrus note to complement the tomato base |
Garnishing and Presentation
- Sprinkle fresh basil leaves or chopped fresh parsley on top just before serving to add color and a burst of herbal aroma.
- A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese further enhances the cheesy depth with a salty punch.
“Serving Ragu Baked Ziti with thoughtfully chosen accompaniments lets us savor every bite in a more holistic and satisfying way.”
Portion Recommendations
For family meals or gatherings, consider the following portion sizes per adult to ensure everyone enjoys generous servings:
| Serving Type | Portion Size |
|---|---|
| Main Course | 1 1/2 cups baked ziti per person |
| Side Salad | 1 cup per person |
| Garlic Bread | 1-2 slices per person |
These serving suggestions ensure a flavorful, satisfying Italian-style meal centered around our Ragu Baked Ziti Recipe.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Mastering the make-ahead and storage aspects of our Ragu Baked Ziti recipe ensures we enjoy this comforting meal with ease—perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the ragu sauce up to 2 days in advance: After simmering, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen making the sauce even richer.
- Cook the pasta al dente and assemble the ziti without baking: Combine the drained pasta, ragu, and cheese mixture in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven. This step promotes even cooking.
Freezing Instructions
Our recipe freezes beautifully, offering convenience for future meals:
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Assemble | Prepare baked ziti but do not bake or sprinkle cheese topping. |
| Wrap | Cover baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. |
| Freeze Duration | Up to 3 months |
| Thawing | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator prior to baking. |
| Baking | Add extra cheese on top after thawing, bake covered for 35 minutes then uncovered for 10 minutes to brown cheese. |
Tip: Label the container with the date to maintain food safety and quality.
Storage After Baking
- Allow the baked ziti to cool completely.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions.
Reheating Tips
- Cover the ziti while reheating to retain moisture.
- Add a splash of water or extra sauce when reheating in the microwave to prevent dryness.
- For oven reheating, cover with foil, then remove foil in the last 5 minutes to refresh the golden cheese topping.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips we can enjoy this classic Italian comfort food anytime with minimal effort.
Conclusion
Ragu Baked Ziti is a timeless dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its rich flavors and comforting textures make it a go-to for both everyday meals and special occasions. With the right ingredients and a bit of patience, we can create a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Embracing the make-ahead and storage tips means we can enjoy this classic Italian favorite with ease whenever we want. Whether serving it fresh from the oven or reheated for leftovers, Ragu Baked Ziti never fails to impress and satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes ragu sauce special in baked ziti?
Ragu sauce is special because it combines sautéed vegetables, ground beef, tomatoes, and red wine, simmered for up to an hour. This slow cooking develops rich, deep flavors that enhance the pasta and cheese layers, making baked ziti hearty and comforting.
Can beginners easily make Ragu Baked Ziti?
Yes, the recipe is straightforward, with clear steps for making the sauce, cooking pasta, and assembling the dish. Ingredients and tools are well-organized, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks.
What type of pasta is best for baked ziti?
Ziti pasta is best because its tube shape holds the sauce and cheese well, ensuring each bite is flavorful and textured perfectly after baking.
How long should I simmer the ragu sauce?
Simmer the ragu sauce for 45 minutes to 1 hour. This slow simmering allows flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, becoming rich and savory.
What cheeses are used in Ragu Baked Ziti?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses are used. Ricotta provides creaminess, mozzarella melts for gooey texture, and Parmesan adds a sharp, savory finish.
Is it necessary to pre-cook the pasta before baking?
Yes, cook the pasta al dente before mixing with the sauce and cheese. This prevents overcooking during baking and maintains the pasta’s firmness.
Can I prepare Ragu Baked Ziti ahead of time?
Definitely. You can make the ragu sauce up to 2 days in advance and assemble the dish without baking. It can also be frozen, then baked when ready.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently, preferably in the oven, to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
What are good side dishes to serve with baked ziti?
Fresh green salad, warm garlic bread or focaccia, and roasted vegetables pair excellently, balancing the richness of the baked ziti.
What drinks complement Ragu Baked Ziti?
Chianti wine, sparkling water, and Italian soda are great options that enhance the meal without overpowering the flavors.