Baked Ziti is a timeless Italian-American classic, renowned for its comforting layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. If you’re searching for the perfect family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make, look no further than the Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti recipe. This recipe takes the beloved casserole to the next level, promising a meat-lover’s dream with a triple cheese delight.
Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti
What Makes Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti Recipe Special?
Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman, is celebrated for her approachable and delicious recipes that resonate with home cooks everywhere. Her version of baked ziti is no exception. What sets this recipe apart is its hearty combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, creating a deeply savory and flavorful base. Coupled with a generous blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses, this baked ziti achieves an irresistible creamy and cheesy texture that everyone will love.
While traditional baked ziti is already a comforting dish, the Pioneer Woman’s recipe elevates it to ultimate comfort food status. It’s similar to lasagna in its baked casserole style but eliminates the fuss of layering lasagna noodles. Instead, ziti pasta, or even penne as a convenient substitute, is tossed with a robust meat sauce and cheese mixture, then baked to bubbly perfection. This makes it a less tedious yet equally satisfying alternative for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients for a Hearty Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
This recipe is packed with flavor and requires simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:
- Pasta: 1 lb Ziti Pasta (uncooked). Penne pasta can be used as a substitute if ziti is unavailable.
- Meat: 1 lb Ground Italian Sausage and 1 lb Lean Ground Beef. This combination provides a rich, meaty flavor that is central to the dish.
- Sauce: 1 Jar (around 24-25 oz) of your favorite Italian pasta sauce. Pioneer Woman offers a range of Italian pasta sauces, including Rustic Bolognese, Marinara, and Four Cheese, which would all work wonderfully. For a richer flavor, consider a Bolognese or Italian Sausage & Peppers variety.
- Cheese: 15oz Ricotta Cheese, 1 Cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese, and 1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese. This trio of cheeses creates a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful filling and topping.
- Aromatics: 1 Cup Chopped Onions and 3 Cloves Minced Garlic. These form the aromatic base of the flavorful meat sauce.
- Olive Oil: 2 Tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil. For sautéing the onions and garlic and browning the meats.
- Egg: 1 Large Egg. To bind the ricotta cheese mixture and add richness.
baked ziti ingredients
Step-by-Step Guide to Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti Recipe
Follow these simple instructions to create a Pioneer Woman-inspired baked ziti that will impress your family and friends:
- Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions, omitting salt from the cooking water. Cook until al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they become softened and fragrant.
- Brown the Meats: Add the ground Italian sausage and lean ground beef to the skillet with the softened onions and garlic. Break up the meats with a spoon and cook until they are evenly browned, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess grease.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix until well blended. This creamy mixture will add a delightful richness to the baked ziti.
- Combine Ingredients: Drain the cooked pasta and spoon it into a large bowl. Add the browned meat sauce and the ricotta cheese mixture to the pasta. Gently mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and cheese.
- Assemble and Bake: Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Spoon the pasta mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring an even layer for maximum cheesiness.
- Bake to Perfection: 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 and Enjoy: Let the baked ziti cool slightly before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit and makes it easier to serve.
pioneer woman baked ziti serving
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta is crucial for baked ziti. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking.
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while browning the meats.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can add unique flavors.
- Vegetable Additions: Sneak in some vegetables by adding sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce.
- Make Ahead: Baked ziti is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble it ahead of time and bake it just before serving. You can even freeze it before baking for a future meal.
Serving Suggestions for Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti
Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying dinner:
- Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread or cheesy garlic breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked ziti.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add a healthy and flavorful side.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the Italian flavors of the baked ziti.
pioneer woman rustic bolognese sauce
Embrace Comfort with Pioneer Woman’s Baked Ziti Recipe
The Pioneer Woman Baked Ziti Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings together the best of Italian-American comfort food. With its hearty meat sauce, triple cheese blend, and easy preparation, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a warm and satisfying meal. Try this recipe today and experience the ultimate comfort in every bite!
