Baked Ziti is a classic dish that’s loved for its comforting flavors and satisfying layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese. If you’re searching for the perfect baked ziti recipe, look no further than the Pioneer Woman’s version. Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, has created a baked ziti that’s a true meat lover’s delight, packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. This recipe takes the beloved Italian-American comfort food to the next level with a hearty combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and a generous blend of cheeses.
Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti
What Makes Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti Special?
Ree Drummond, known as the Pioneer Woman, is famous for her approachable and delicious recipes, perfect for family meals and gatherings. Her baked ziti recipe is no exception. What sets it apart is its robust flavor profile and simple preparation. It’s designed to be a crowd-pleaser, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. The recipe emphasizes hearty ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Hearty Ingredients for a Flavorful Baked Ziti
This Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti recipe is all about delivering big flavors. The star of the show is the combination of two types of meat: ground beef and Italian sausage. This duo creates a depth of flavor that’s truly irresistible. The recipe also features a zesty tomato sauce that perfectly complements the richness of the meats and cheeses. Speaking of cheese, get ready for a triple cheese experience! Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese combine to create that gooey, cheesy goodness that makes baked ziti so incredibly satisfying.
baked ziti
Step-by-Step Guide to Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
Ready to make this amazing baked ziti? Here’s a step-by-step guide inspired by the Pioneer Woman’s recipe:
Yields: 6-8 servings
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ziti Pasta, Uncooked (Penne can be substituted)
- 2 tsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 cup Chopped Onions
- 3 cloves Garlic, Minced
- 1 lb Italian Sausage, Ground (or link sausage, casings removed)
- 1 lb Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Jar (Your Favorite Brand) Pasta Sauce (Pioneer Woman Pasta Sauce recommended if available)
- 1 Egg
- 1 (15oz) container Ricotta Cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, Shredded
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Large Bowl
- 9×13 inch Baking Pan
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions, omitting salt. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
- Brown the Meats: Crumble the ground Italian sausage and ground beef into the skillet with the cooked onions and garlic. Cook until both meats are evenly browned, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook. Drain off any excess grease. Remove skillet from heat.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the egg, ricotta cheese, and shredded parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.
- Combine Ingredients: In the same large bowl you used for the cheese mixture, add the drained pasta. Pour in the pasta sauce and add the ricotta cheese mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is lightly coated and evenly combined.
- Assemble and Bake: Spoon the pasta mixture into a 9×13-inch baking pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the baked ziti is heated through, bubbly, and the mozzarella cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
- Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
pioneer woman rustic bolognese
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
- Pasta Choice: While ziti is traditional, penne pasta works wonderfully as a substitute and is often more readily available.
- Meat Options: If you can’t find ground Italian sausage, you can use Italian link sausage. Simply remove the casings before browning. For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef, but the beef adds a richer flavor.
- Sauce Selection: Using a good quality pasta sauce is key. Pioneer Woman pasta sauces are a great option if you want to stay true to the recipe’s inspiration, but any flavorful marinara or Bolognese sauce will work well.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone or Monterey Jack can be added for extra meltiness.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the baked ziti ahead of time and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Serving Suggestions for Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad and garlic bread. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a comforting and satisfying dish. Leftovers are also fantastic and reheat beautifully, making it a great option for meal prepping.
Indulge in Pioneer Woman’s Comfort Food Classic
This Pioneer Woman baked ziti recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its hearty combination of meats, flavorful sauce, and gooey cheeses, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and experience the deliciousness of Pioneer Woman’s take on this Italian-American classic!
