Print

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Juicy Meatballs

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Cheesy Baked Ziti with Juicy Meatballs is a hearty and comforting pasta casserole layered with tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, flavorful meatballs, and gooey cheeses—perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or beef/pork mix
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into 1¼-inch meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides. Transfer to a plate (they will finish cooking in the oven).
  4. In the same skillet, sauté onion until translucent, then stir in marinara sauce.
  5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked pasta. Pour half the sauce over it, place meatballs on top, add dollops of ricotta (if using), and sprinkle half the mozzarella.
  6. Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, meatballs, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  7. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Browning meatballs before baking enhances flavor and texture.
  • Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Use fresh or homemade marinara sauce for deeper flavor.
  • Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
  • Let casserole rest before serving to set layers and improve texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/cheesy-baked-ziti-with-juicy-meatballs/