Description
Baked Ziti with Meatballs is a classic comfort food that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. This hearty dish features layers of al dente ziti pasta, savory meatballs made from lean ground beef, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for customization with your favorite vegetables or additional spices. With minimal prep time and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience that warms the heart and pleases the palate.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; shape into meatballs.
- Bake meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet for about 20 minutes until browned.
- Cook ziti until al dente; drain and return to pot.
- Combine cooked pasta with marinara sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Layer half the pasta mixture in the baking dish, top with meatballs, then add remaining pasta and sprinkle with mozzarella.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly; let it rest before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg