Baked Ziti: A Flavorful Pasta Bake

The Ultimate Pasta Sauce

This version of Baked Ziti takes the meat sauce to the next level by adding a variety of seasonings. The result is a pasta sauce that is packed with flavor, without the need for hours of simmering like traditional Ragu. Once you try this meat sauce, you may never go back to Bolognese again!

What Goes in Baked Ziti

Here are the key ingredients for making Baked Ziti:

• Meat: You can use all beef for a classic version, but for an extra delicious meat sauce, try using a combination of pork and beef.
• Tomato Passata: This thick and smooth tomato puree creates a rich and flavorful sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. If you can’t find tomato passata, you can use canned crushed tomatoes with a bit of tomato paste.
• Seasonings: In addition to the classic Italian seasonings like basil and oregano, this recipe includes optional fennel seeds for an extra special touch.

How to Make Baked Ziti

Making Baked Ziti is as easy as making Bolognese. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Cook the ziti pasta until it’s slightly undercooked. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven and prepare the sauce by sautéing onion and garlic, then adding the meat and seasonings.
3. Stir in the tomato passata, water, basil, oregano, and sugar. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes.
4. Toss the cooked ziti with some of the sauce in a pot, then spread it into a baking dish.
5. Dollop ricotta cheese on top of the ziti, and pour the remaining sauce over it.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the oven until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve with a sprinkle of parsley or basil for garnish.