Baked Ziti with Spinach and Meat: A Comfort Food Delight
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food, and this version with spinach and meat takes it to a whole new level. It’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make. The combination of tender ziti pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, vibrant spinach, and bubbly mozzarella is simply irresistible. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or even a make-ahead meal. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and deliciousness of this baked ziti!
## Why You’ll Love This Recipe
* **Comforting and satisfying:** Baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food, warm, cheesy, and filling.
* **Easy to make:** Despite its impressive taste, this recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking by using different meats, cheeses, or vegetables.
* **Make-ahead friendly:** You can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and bake it later, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Crowd-pleaser:** This dish is always a hit with both kids and adults.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** Makes a lot? No problem! Freeze leftovers for a quick and easy meal later.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Ziti pasta:** The classic choice for baked ziti, but you can also use penne or rigatoni.
* **Ground meat:** Ground beef, ground pork, ground Italian sausage, or a combination work well. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.
* **Onion and garlic:** These aromatic vegetables form the base of the sauce.
* **Canned crushed tomatoes:** Provides the rich tomato flavor for the sauce. Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best results.
* **Tomato paste:** Adds depth and richness to the tomato sauce.
* **Italian seasoning:** A blend of herbs that adds classic Italian flavor.
* **Red pepper flakes (optional):** Adds a touch of heat to the sauce.
* **Fresh spinach:** Adds nutrients and a vibrant green color. Frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, can be used as a substitute.
* **Ricotta cheese:** Creates a creamy and cheesy layer. Whole milk ricotta is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
* **Egg:** Helps bind the ricotta mixture together.
* **Parmesan cheese:** Adds a salty and savory flavor to the ricotta mixture and the topping.
* **Mozzarella cheese:** Creates a bubbly and cheesy topping.
* **Salt and pepper:** To taste.
* **Olive oil:** For sautéing the vegetables and meat.
## Detailed Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious baked ziti:
### 1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
* Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
* Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
* Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
* Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
* Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
### 2. Cook the Ziti Pasta
* While the sauce is simmering, cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. It should be slightly undercooked as it will continue to cook in the oven.
* Drain the pasta and set aside.
### 3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
* In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
* Mix well until combined.
### 4. Assemble the Baked Ziti
* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
* Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
* In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce and spinach. Stir well to coat.
* Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
* Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
* Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
* Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
* Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
### 5. Bake the Ziti
* Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
* Bake for 20 minutes.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
* Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
## Tips for the Perfect Baked Ziti
* **Don’t overcook the pasta:** Cook the ziti until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta will become mushy.
* **Use high-quality ingredients:** Use good quality crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor.
* **Don’t skip the simmering:** Simmering the meat sauce for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
* **Squeeze the spinach dry:** If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. This will prevent the baked ziti from becoming watery.
* **Let it rest:** Allowing the baked ziti to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving helps it to set up and makes it easier to slice.
* **Add some vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the meat sauce, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
* **Spice it up:** If you like a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce.
* **Use different cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses, such as provolone, fontina, or Asiago.
* **Add herbs:** Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley can add a burst of flavor. Stir them into the meat sauce or sprinkle them over the top before baking.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as eggplant, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use a meat substitute.
## Variations
Here are a few variations to try:
* **Spicy Baked Ziti:** Add more red pepper flakes to the meat sauce, or use hot Italian sausage.
* **Vegetarian Baked Ziti:** Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as eggplant, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use a meat substitute.
* **Chicken Baked Ziti:** Use ground chicken instead of ground beef or sausage.
* **Baked Ziti with Roasted Vegetables:** Roast your favorite vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers, and add them to the pasta before baking.
* **Baked Ziti with Pesto:** Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto into the ricotta mixture for a burst of flavor.
* **Creamy Baked Ziti:** Add a cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the meat sauce for a richer, creamier dish.
## Serving Suggestions
Baked ziti is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Here are some specific serving suggestions:
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs perfectly with baked ziti.
* **Garlic Bread:** Warm and crusty garlic bread is a classic accompaniment to Italian dishes.
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are a healthy and flavorful side dish.
* **Meatballs:** Serve baked ziti with homemade or store-bought meatballs for a heartier meal.
* **Italian Sausage:** Grilled or pan-fried Italian sausage is another great addition to baked ziti.
* **Wine Pairing:** A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs well with baked ziti.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
Baked ziti is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. You can also freeze baked ziti for up to 3 months. To freeze, assemble the baked ziti in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
## Storage Instructions
Store leftover baked ziti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
## Recipe Card
**Baked Ziti with Spinach and Meat**
**Prep Time:** 30 minutes
**Cook Time:** 50 minutes
**Total Time:** 1 hour 20 minutes
**Servings:** 8-10 servings
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound ziti pasta
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound ground beef, ground pork, or ground Italian sausage
* 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
* 6 ounces tomato paste
* 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* 10 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1 egg
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally.
6. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce and spinach. Stir well to coat.
8. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
10. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta.
11. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
12. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
13. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
14. Bake for 20 minutes.
15. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown.
16. Let the baked ziti rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
## Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 30-40g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
## Conclusion
This baked ziti with spinach and meat is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that is incredibly satisfying, delicious and not too hard to prepare. It is an awesome and comforting meal for your entire family! With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy!