This baked pasta Recipe dish is a comforting, family-friendly recipe loaded with hearty meat sauce, tender ziti pasta, and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s simple to make, yet bursting with Italian-inspired flavors. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 55 mins
Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
Servings: 8
Ingredients for Baked Pasta
- Cooking spray (for greasing the dish)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 (15-ounce) cans tomato sauce
- 12 ounces brown gravy
- ½ cup half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 (16-ounce) package dry ziti pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Baked Pasta
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large frying pan or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce, brown gravy, half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until it is al dente (tender yet firm to the bite), about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (1/8 of the recipe):
- Calories: 490
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 133mg
- Sodium: 1021mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 49g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 26g
Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Pasta
- Customize the Sauce: Add chopped veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or a combination of cheeses for a twist.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready for a quick, no-fuss meal.
This baked pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying dish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy!