We’ve always been fans of the classic baked ziti that’s hearty and satisfying, and Ronzoni’s boxed version brings that Italian-American comfort straight to your kitchen. This easy-to-follow recipe combines tender pasta with rich sauce and melted cheese for a crowd-pleasing meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight.
With roots in traditional Italian cuisine Ronzoni simplifies the process so we can whip up a delicious dish without fuss. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends this baked ziti promises big flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
In our Ronzoni Baked Ziti recipe, we start with high-quality ingredients that capture the hearty, comforting essence of this Italian-American favorite. These components come together to deliver rich flavors and a satisfying texture, making it perfect for quick family dinners.
- 1 pound Ronzoni ziti pasta: Our base—cook this al dente for the ideal chewy texture that absorbs the sauce without becoming mushy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used first to sauté aromatics; opt for extra-virgin for a fruity, robust flavor that enhances the dish’s Mediterranean vibe.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet, savory depth; prepare by dicing it small for even cooking and better integration into the sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Freshly chopped for a pungent, aromatic punch that infuses the base with warmth—don’t skip this for authentic taste.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage or beef: Brown this next for a meaty, flavorful protein; choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference to balance the overall dish.
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce: Pour in after meats for a tangy, tomato-rich base; we recommend a high-quality brand to complement Ronzoni’s pasta.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Stir in for creamy pockets of indulgence; full-fat version provides the smoothest, most luxurious mouthfeel.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Layer this on top for gooey, melted perfection that creates that irresistible golden crust.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle last for a nutty, salty finish that adds crunch and elevates the cheese blend.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A simple herb that brings earthy, herbal notes; crush it lightly before adding for maximum flavor release.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Season throughout; use kosher salt for better control and freshly ground pepper for a sharper kick.
- Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish): Added at the end for a bright, fragrant touch that enhances the visual appeal and fresh taste of the finished bake.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful Ronzoni Baked Ziti, let’s gather the essential kitchen tools that make the process smooth and efficient. These items ensure we handle everything from boiling pasta to baking the dish with ease.
We recommend the following equipment based on the steps involved:
- Large Pot: For boiling the Ronzoni ziti pasta to achieve that perfect al dente texture.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: Ideal for cooking the ground Italian sausage or beef with onions and garlic to build rich flavors.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch glass or metal dish works best for layering and baking the ziti to golden perfection.
- Colander: To quickly drain the cooked pasta without losing any precious starches.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula: For stirring ingredients like marinara sauce ricotta and mozzarella cheeses together seamlessly.
- Oven: Must be preheated to 375°F for even baking and that irresistible bubbly top.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurements of cheeses oregano and other key ingredients.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For finely chopping fresh items like garlic and onion to enhance the dish’s aroma and taste.
With these tools ready we can move forward confidently to the preparation steps.
Instructions
We make preparing Ronzoni Baked Ziti straightforward and foolproof with these detailed steps. Let’s dive into the process to create a comforting Italian-American dish full of rich flavors and cheesy goodness.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we gather and prep our ingredients for efficiency. Begin by chopping 1 medium onion and 3 cloves of garlic into fine pieces for even cooking. Measure out 1 pound of ground Italian sausage or beef and set it aside. Grate 2 cups of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese for layering, and mix 1 cup of ricotta cheese with 1 teaspoon of oregano in a bowl for a flavorful cheese blend. Drain and rinse 1 box (16 ounces) of Ronzoni ziti pasta if needed, and have 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce ready along with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and fresh basil leaves for garnish. This preparation ensures our ingredients integrate seamlessly for optimal taste and texture.
Cook the Pasta
Now we cook the pasta to achieve that perfect al dente bite. Fill a large pot with 4 quarts of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the 16 ounces of Ronzoni ziti pasta and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is firm yet tender, then drain it in a colander and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process. This step locks in the pasta’s hearty texture, making it ideal for absorbing the sauce’s flavors.
Make the Sauce
With the pasta cooking, we focus on building a robust sauce base. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. Crumble in 1 pound of ground Italian sausage or beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until browned and fully cooked through. Pour in 24 ounces of marinara sauce and stir in the ricotta-oregano mixture, letting it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors into a savory, aromatic sauce. This combination creates a rich, hearty base that elevates the dish’s comforting appeal.
Assemble the Ziti
It’s time to layer everything for that iconic baked ziti structure. Preheat your oven to 375°F as mentioned earlier, then grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil. Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture at the bottom, add half of the cooked ziti pasta on top, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheeses, finishing with a generous sprinkle of oregano and Parmesan for a golden crust. This assembly ensures even distribution of flavors and textures, promising a bubbly, irresistible result.
Bake the Dish
Finally, we bake to perfection for that melty, golden finish. Place the assembled baking dish in the preheated 375°F oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set, allowing the cheeses to create a cohesive, satisfying texture. This step delivers the dish’s signature warmth and aroma, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Make-Ahead and Storage
One of the beauties of our Ronzoni Baked Ziti recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We often prepare it in advance to save time on weeknights or for entertaining, ensuring a comforting, homemade meal is just a bake away. Below, we break down the best practices for making ahead and storing this hearty dish to maintain its rich flavors and perfect texture.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Ronzoni Baked Ziti ahead of time lets us focus on enjoying family gatherings without last-minute rushes. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Assemble the dish completely: After layering the cooked pasta, sauce, meats, and cheeses in your greased baking dish as outlined in the previous section, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. We advise doing this up to 24 hours in advance to let the flavors meld.
- Refrigerate promptly: Place the assembled dish in the refrigerator at 40°F or below. This step helps preserve the fresh ingredients like garlic, onion, and basil, keeping the Italian-American essence intact.
- Baking adjustments: When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F as before, then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through and achieves that bubbly, golden finish we love.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage keeps our baked ziti tasting fresh and satisfying, whether you’re dealing with leftovers or freezing portions for later. Here’s how to handle it safely and effectively.
- Refrigerating leftovers: If you have baked ziti, let it cool to room temperature for about 20 minutes, then transfer portions to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. We recommend reheating in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
- Freezing for longer storage: For unbaked assembled dishes, wrap the baking dish securely with freezer-safe wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. For baked leftovers, portion into freezer-safe bags or containers first. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating as needed.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration (Assembled, Unbaked) | Up to 24 hours | Keep covered; bake directly from fridge with adjustments. |
| Refrigeration (Baked Leftovers) | 3-4 days | Reheat thoroughly to 165°F for safety and texture. |
| Freezing (Assembled, Unbaked) | Up to 3 months | Thaw fully before baking; add extra bake time if needed. |
| Freezing (Baked Leftovers) | Up to 3 months | Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, covered. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this Ronzoni baked ziti recipe with you as it’s a reliable favorite for quick hearty meals. It’s perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends while keeping things simple yet delicious.
Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s our go-to for busy days – we promise it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is baked ziti?
Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish featuring tube-shaped pasta layered with meats, cheeses, and sauce, then baked to bubbly perfection. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying balance of textures and tastes using ingredients like Ronzoni pasta, marinara, and cheeses.
How do I make baked ziti with Ronzoni pasta?
Start by boiling Ronzoni ziti to al dente. Sauté onions, garlic, and ground meat in a skillet, then mix with marinara and ricotta. Layer the pasta, sauce mixture, and cheeses in a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden, about 25-30 minutes. Let it rest before serving for easy slicing.
What ingredients are needed for this baked ziti recipe?
Key ingredients include Ronzoni ziti pasta, olive oil, onion, garlic, ground Italian sausage or beef, marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and fresh basil for garnish. These high-quality items create a rich, balanced flavor and texture, making it ideal for quick, comforting meals.
What kitchen equipment is required for baked ziti?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking meat and aromatics, a baking dish for layering, a colander for draining, and measuring cups for portions. Preheat your oven to 375°F for even baking, ensuring a smooth process and a perfectly golden finish.
Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?
Yes, assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours to let flavors meld. This makes it great for busy schedules—just bake when ready. For longer storage, freeze before baking; it saves time and enhances taste for easy weeknight meals.
How should I store and reheat baked ziti leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months using freezer-safe wraps. To reheat, bake covered at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. This keeps the dish fresh, moist, and delicious for later enjoyment.