If you’re craving a hearty, comforting Italian-American classic, then this Baked Ziti recipe inspired by Andiamo Las Vegas is exactly what you need. This dish is the perfect marriage of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheeses, and savory meat, baked to golden, bubbly perfection.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a gathering with friends, or just treating yourself to something truly satisfying, this baked ziti will not disappoint. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip up this crowd-pleaser with ease.
Plus, the flavors come together in a way that feels both authentically Italian and wonderfully indulgent—just like what you’d expect from a renowned Las Vegas Italian eatery.
Get ready to fill your kitchen with the aroma of garlic and herbs, melt into the gooey cheese layers, and enjoy a dish that’s as festive as it is comforting. And if you love this recipe, you might also enjoy other delicious treats like Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce or the irresistible Glazed Twist Donut.
Let’s dive right into making this Italian favorite come alive in your own kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked ziti recipe shines because it combines the best of Italian comfort food traditions with a Las Vegas twist that’s all about richness and flavor. The tender pasta perfectly absorbs the savory tomato sauce, while the blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a luscious, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Andiamo Las Vegas is famous for its authentic yet approachable Italian dishes, and this baked ziti brings that spirit home. It’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that also freezes beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite meats or veggies for a personal touch.
Whether you’re a pasta lover, a cheese enthusiast, or just looking for a satisfying dinner that warms your soul, this recipe ticks all the boxes with minimal fuss and maximum delight.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Cook the ziti pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sausage. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook gently for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan. Add chopped parsley, if using, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Mix the cooked ziti pasta into the tomato sauce and sausage mixture until well combined.
- Layer half of the pasta and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Dollop and spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta layer.
- Add the remaining pasta and sauce mixture on top, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra layer of flavor, try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce before baking. You can also swap Italian sausage for ground beef or turkey for a leaner option.”
Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and double up on vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms. You can also use plant-based sausage alternatives.
Cheese variations: Mix in some provolone or fontina cheese for a richer, more complex cheese flavor. Fresh mozzarella works beautifully as well.
Advance preparation: This recipe can be assembled a day ahead, covered tightly, and refrigerated. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1/8th) |
---|---|
Calories | 430 kcal |
Protein | 25 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Fat | 18 g |
Saturated Fat | 9 g |
Cholesterol | 65 mg |
Sodium | 800 mg |
Fiber | 4 g |
Sugar | 6 g |
Serving Suggestions
This baked ziti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the cheese and meat. Garlic bread or the Green Chile Cheese Bread from our recipe collection is a fantastic accompaniment for soaking up extra sauce.
For a refreshing beverage, try pairing your meal with a chilled Italian red wine such as Chianti or a sparkling water with a twist of lemon. And if you’re looking to finish your meal on a sweet note, don’t miss out on our decadent Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs.
Conclusion
This baked ziti recipe inspired by Andiamo Las Vegas is a true testament to the comfort and joy that Italian-American cuisine brings to the table. Its rich layers of savory sausage, tangy tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses create a dish that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a recipe that’s simple enough for beginners but indulgent enough to impress seasoned home cooks.
With the ability to customize it to your taste, make it vegetarian, or prepare it ahead of time, this baked ziti is as versatile as it is delicious. Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes like our Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe to complement your Italian meal.
So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the magic of a homemade baked ziti that transports you straight to the heart of Las Vegas’s finest Italian dining!
📖 Recipe Card: Bake Ziti Recipe Andiamo Las Vegas
Description: A classic Italian-American baked pasta dish with ziti, marinara, ricotta, and mozzarella. Perfectly baked for a cheesy, comforting meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound dry ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and transfer half of the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan over the pasta.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 50 g
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