Best Baked Ziti Recipe

This baked ziti recipe is a game-changer! Forget your grandma's recipe – this one features a creamy sour cream and provolone cheese blend that sets it apart. Get ready for unbelievably cheesy, comforting deliciousness. Our readers rave about this recipe – find out why it's earned a zillion 5-star reviews (almost)! This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Calories 697.4 kcal
Protein 69g
Rating 4.9 (7 Reviews)
Best Baked Ziti

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Baked Ziti

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Lean Ground Beef
  • 2 (24-ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

How to Make Best Baked Ziti

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water (about 8 cups) to a rolling boil.
  2. Add 1 pound of ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside. Rinse with cold water to stop cooking process.
  4. In a large skillet (12-inch), brown 1 medium onion (chopped) and 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat, breaking the beef into crumbles. Drain off any excess grease.
  5. Add 2 (24-ounce) jars of your favorite spaghetti sauce and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Lightly butter a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. Layer as follows: 1/2 of the cooked ziti, 1 cup shredded provolone cheese, 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 of the sauce mixture, the remaining ziti, 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, and the remaining sauce mixture.
  9. Top with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

55 g

Sugar

77g

Fat

76g

Carbs

22g