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Craving something hearty and comforting? This Baked Ziti and Meatballs Casserole is your go-to dish. Packed with ziti pasta, ground beef, and three types of cheese, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. The layers of marinara sauce and ricotta mixture meld together perfectly, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive in!
What You Will Need for This Delicious Casserole
Read more: Baked Ziti with Ricotta Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make baked ziti and meatballs casserole
- Ziti pasta: Holds the sauce well, providing a hearty base for the casserole.
- Ground beef: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein to the dish.
- Marinara sauce: Brings a tangy, tomatoey goodness that ties everything together.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy top layer.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a subtle richness to the casserole.
- Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté garlic and beef, adding depth to the flavors.
- Dried oregano: Enhances the Italian flavor profile with its earthy, slightly bitter taste.
- Dried basil: Adds a sweet, herbal note that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce.
Essential Tools and Instruments
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Baked Ziti and Meatballs Casserole Recipe
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and browning the ground beef, ensuring even cooking and flavor development.
- Baking dish: Necessary for layering and baking the casserole, providing a vessel for even heat distribution.
- Mixing bowl: Used to combine cheeses, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture in the casserole.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring sauces and mixing ingredients without scratching cookware.
- Colander: Drains the cooked pasta efficiently, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Measuring cups: Ensures precise ingredient quantities, crucial for balanced flavors and textures.
- Grater: Grates parmesan cheese finely, enhancing the dish's flavor and texture.
Baked Ziti and Meatballs Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole dish combining baked ziti and meatballs.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the meat sauce, and the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes:
This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated. Just bake it when you're ready to eat.
Read more: Vegetarian Baked Ziti Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg
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Make Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the casserole as directed but do not bake.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble the casserole without baking.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
For a richer flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How long does it take to prepare and cook this recipe?
It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so roughly 40 minutes total.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute ziti with penne or rigatoni if you prefer.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can assemble it ahead and refrigerate. Just bake it when you're ready.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to eat.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A side salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish.
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