We’ve always been fans of the hearty, cheesy comfort that baked ziti brings to the table especially when it’s inspired by Maggiano’s iconic recipe. This Italian-American classic combines tender pasta ziti with rich marinara savory meats and a golden cheese topping making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
Originating from traditional Italian roots Maggiano’s version amps up the flavors with layers of indulgence that we can’t resist. We’re sharing our simplified take so you can recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen delivering that same satisfying crunch and warmth every time.
Ingredients
To recreate our take on the classic Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe, we gather high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of tender pasta, rich marinara, savory meats, and that irresistible golden cheese topping. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are typically used during preparation, with specific prep notes for accuracy and ease.
Pasta and Base Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta: We suggest using dried ziti for its perfect al dente texture that holds up well when baked.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra-virgin variety for sautéing, ensuring a flavorful base without overpowering the dish.
Aromatics and Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Yellow onion works best for its sweet undertone, which builds the foundational flavor.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Freshly minced for a pungent, aromatic punch that elevates the marinara.
Meats and Proteins
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage: Mild or hot based on preference; we recommend browning it fully to release its savory juices.
- 1/2 pound ground beef: Lean cut for balance; mix it with the sausage for a hearty, meaty layer.
Sauces and Seasonings
- 4 cups marinara sauce: Homemade or a high-quality jarred version inspired by Maggiano’s rich tomato base—aim for one with herbs for authentic Italian flair.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Crumbled between fingers for maximum flavor release.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to mimic traditional roots.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: We advise using kosher salt for even seasoning.
Cheeses and Toppings
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Whole milk for creaminess; gently whipped before use to ensure smooth incorporation.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded for that melty, golden topping that defines Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Aged Parmesan for a sharp, nutty finish on top.
This selection ensures our Baked Ziti Maggiano’s Recipe delivers the comforting, sensory experience of layered flavors and textures you love.
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for this Maggiano’s-inspired baked ziti, we turn our attention to the essential tools and equipment. Having the right items on hand ensures a smooth cooking process and helps us achieve that perfect, golden-topped dish with minimal hassle.
To prepare and assemble our baked ziti effectively, we’ll need the following tools and equipment. We’ve organized them by the sequence in which they’re typically used, from prep to baking:
- Large Stock Pot: A 6- to 8-quart pot for boiling the ziti pasta. We recommend one with a lid to maintain a rolling boil and prevent pasta from sticking.
- Colander: For draining the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently, ensuring it’s not waterlogged and ready for mixing with sauces.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 12-inch non-stick or stainless-steel pan for browning the ground Italian sausage and beef, as well as sautéing onions and garlic to build rich flavors.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy wooden or plastic board paired with a sharp 8-inch knife for chopping onions, garlic, and any other fresh ingredients with precision and safety.
- Mixing Bowl: A large 4-quart bowl for combining the cooked pasta, meats, marinara sauce, and cheeses, allowing for even distribution of flavors.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch glass or ceramic dish for layering and baking the ziti. This is crucial for achieving that signature crispy, golden cheese topping we love in Maggiano’s version.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring and mixing ingredients without scratching pans or bowls, ensuring everything blends seamlessly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set for accurate measurements of ingredients like olive oil, marinara sauce, and cheeses, guaranteeing the recipe’s balance and authenticity.
- Oven: A standard home oven preheated to 375°F for baking. We suggest one with an oven thermometer for precise temperature control to avoid overcooking.
With these tools, we’re set to transition smoothly from ingredient prep to the cooking and baking stages, capturing the essence of this comforting Italian-American classic.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our flavorful Baked Ziti inspired by Maggiano’s. Follow these instructions closely to achieve that irresistible blend of tender pasta, savory meats, and melted cheese.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything flows smoothly. Start by bringing a large stock pot of salted water to a boil—we aim for about 4 quarts of water to cook 1 pound of dried ziti pasta perfectly al dente. While the water heats, finely chop 1 medium onion and mince 4 garlic cloves for a fresh aromatic base. In a separate bowl, grate 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese to achieve that signature golden topping Maggiano’s is known for. Pro tip: Measure out 1 pound of ground Italian sausage and 1 pound of ground beef ahead of time so we can dive right into browning them without delay.
Cook the Sauce
With our ingredients prepped, we now cook the hearty sauce that forms the heart of our Baked Ziti. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat then add the chopped onion and minced garlic—sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they release a fragrant aroma that fills the kitchen. Next, add the 1 pound of ground Italian sausage and 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet and brown them thoroughly for 8-10 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spoon until it’s no longer pink and the flavors meld into a savory mixture. Stir in 4 cups of marinara sauce and let it simmer for 10 minutes—the sauce will thicken slightly, developing rich, tangy notes that evoke Maggiano’s classic taste.
Assemble the Dish
Now we assemble the dish to create those irresistible layers of texture and flavor. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the cooked sauce to prevent sticking. Add the drained al dente ziti pasta on top, followed by half of the meat sauce mixture for even distribution. Sprinkle half of the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over this layer to lock in moisture and promise a gooey, melted finish. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheeses—we ensure each bite offers a perfect harmony of tender pasta, robust sauce, and creamy cheese that mirrors the comforting appeal of Maggiano’s version.
Bake
Finally, we bake the assembled dish to achieve that coveted golden crust. Preheat your oven to 375°F and place the baking dish on the middle rack. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbly and the cheese forms a crispy, golden-brown layer—the aroma of melted cheese and herbs will make your kitchen irresistible. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set, allowing the flavors to intensify before serving.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Baked Ziti Maggiano’s recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to save time while letting flavors deepen and meld for an even more satisfying dish. By planning ahead, we can have a comforting, golden-topped bake ready for family dinners or gatherings without last-minute stress.
Preparing Components in Advance
We can break down the process to prepare elements separately, ensuring everything comes together seamlessly later:
- Cook the pasta early: Boil the ziti pasta as outlined in our preparation steps, but undercook it by 2-3 minutes so it remains al dente. This prevents it from becoming mushy when baked later. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking, then let it cool before storing.
- Make the sauce ahead: Sauté the onions, garlic, and meats, then simmer the marinara sauce as described. Once cooled, portion it into airtight containers. Preparing the sauce a day or two in advance enhances its rich, savory depth, as the flavors intensify over time.
- Grate and mix cheeses: Shred the cheeses fresh and combine them in a bowl. Store in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator to keep them ready for quick assembly.
Assembling and Storing the Dish
For full make-ahead convenience, we recommend assembling the entire dish before baking:
- Follow our layering instructions from the preparation section, combining the pasta, sauce, and cheeses in the baking dish.
- Cover the assembled dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours: This allows the ingredients to marry, creating a more cohesive and flavorful result. If making further ahead, freeze the assembled dish for up to 2 months—simply wrap it twice in foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered; thaw in fridge if needed before baking. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Cool completely before freezing; label with date for easy tracking. |
Reheating and Baking Tips
When it’s time to enjoy our Baked Ziti, we can revive it with minimal effort while maintaining that irresistible bubbly cheese topping and tender pasta texture:
- If refrigerated, remove the dish from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Bake as per the original instructions, adding 10-15 minutes to the oven time if starting from cold.
- For frozen dishes, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then bake until heated through and the top is golden and crispy, filling the kitchen with the aromatic blend of melted cheeses and herbs.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure our Baked Ziti Maggiano’s recipe stays fresh, flavorful, and ready to impress.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our take on Baked Ziti Maggiano’s recipe. It’s a simple way to bring authentic Italian comfort to your table, creating memorable meals with ease.
By following our tips, you’ll master this dish and make it your own, whether for weeknights or special occasions. Let’s keep the tradition alive in our kitchens—enjoy every cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is baked ziti?
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American pasta dish featuring tender ziti pasta layered with marinara sauce, meats like sausage and beef, and melted cheeses. Inspired by Maggiano’s version, it combines rich flavors for a comforting meal, perfect for family gatherings. This hearty dish highlights traditional roots with a modern twist for enhanced taste.
How do I make Maggiano’s baked ziti at home?
Start by boiling ziti pasta until al dente, then sauté onions, garlic, sausage, and beef in a skillet. Mix with marinara sauce, layer in a baking dish with cheeses, and bake until golden and bubbly. This simplified recipe captures Maggiano’s flavors in about 45-60 minutes of prep and cooking time.
What ingredients are needed for baked ziti?
Key ingredients include dried ziti pasta, olive oil, onions, garlic, ground Italian sausage, ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan. These high-quality items ensure a balanced mix of flavors and textures, making your homemade version taste just like Maggiano’s.
What tools are required to prepare baked ziti?
You’ll need a large stock pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a skillet for browning meats, and a baking dish for assembly. These essentials help achieve a smooth process and that signature crispy cheese topping, just like in Maggiano’s recipe.
Can I make baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes, prepare baked ziti in advance by cooking pasta slightly underdone, making the sauce ahead, and assembling the dish. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months. This flexibility lets you bake it fresh later with minimal effort.
How do I store and reheat baked ziti?
After baking, let it cool, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This keeps the flavors and textures intact for a delicious meal anytime.
What are some tips for the best baked ziti?
Use high-quality cheeses for a gooey topping, undercook pasta slightly to avoid mushiness, and let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking. Experiment with herbs for extra flavor, and ensure even layering for the perfect balance, mimicking Maggiano’s irresistible version.