Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling casserole filled with gooey cheese, hearty meat, and perfectly cooked pasta. The Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme is just that—a rich, cheesy, and satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. This dish combines tender ziti pasta with a savory ground beef marinara sauce and three luscious cheeses: ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone, all topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, delivering layers of flavor and creamy texture in every bite.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of this Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme lies in its balance. The ziti pasta holds its shape well, soaking up just enough sauce without turning mushy. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone cheeses creates a perfect blend of creaminess, stretch, and sharpness. Ground beef adds heartiness and depth, and the marinara sauce infused with garlic and onions brings a bright, savory base. Topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley, the dish gets a beautiful finish, both in flavor and presentation. This recipe is straightforward yet impressive, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large pot – for boiling the ziti
• Skillet or sauté pan – to cook the beef and aromatics
• Large mixing bowl – to combine pasta with cheese and sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for layering and baking
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Cheese grater – if shredding your own cheese
• Aluminum foil – to cover the dish while baking

Make Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 oz of ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Pour in the jar of marinara sauce. Stir in dried oregano and dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Mix Pasta and Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the provolone cheese. Add a few spoonfuls of the meat sauce to help bind everything together. Mix gently but thoroughly. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer the cheesy ziti mixture over the sauce, then pour the remaining meat sauce evenly on top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, provolone, and the grated Parmesan over everything.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting richness of your Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme.

Make It Fit Your Plan

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils to keep that hearty texture.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in some spicy Italian sausage.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to fit dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This dish holds up beautifully in the fridge and freezes well for easy future meals.
• Double the Cheese: For extra indulgence, add a layer of shredded cheese between the layers of pasta and sauce.

What Could Go Wrong

• Overcooked Pasta: If the pasta is cooked beyond al dente, it can turn mushy when baked. Stick to the package directions and drain immediately.
• Dry Casserole: Not enough sauce or cheese can leave the dish dry. Make sure to mix enough marinara and cheeses for a moist final product.
• Browning Too Quickly: If the cheese browns too fast, tent the dish with foil to prevent burning.
• Underseasoned Sauce: Taste the meat sauce before assembling to ensure the seasoning is balanced.

How to Store & Reheat

Allow the Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To reheat, cover the ziti with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved, covered, in 1-2 minute increments, stirring halfway.

This dish also freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as directed.

Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme Q&A

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to bake, just add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes first.

What’s the best cheese for melting in this recipe?

Mozzarella and provolone are excellent for melting and stretchiness, while ricotta adds creamy texture. Parmesan on top adds a sharp, savory finish that browns beautifully.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that turkey and chicken can dry out faster, so watch the cooking time and add a bit more sauce if needed.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?

Be sure to stir the pasta occasionally while boiling and rinse with warm water after draining if you’re not mixing it immediately. Tossing cooked pasta with a tiny bit of olive oil can also help keep it separate.

You Might Also Like

• Baked Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups – A cheesy, elegant spin on traditional lasagna featuring four different cheeses rolled into tender pasta sheets.
• Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – This creamy chicken and penne pasta bake is rich with three cheeses and perfect for family dinners.

Final Thoughts

The Baked Three-Cheese Ziti Supreme is a timeless dish that brings together simple ingredients for a rich and satisfying meal. Its layered cheeses, well-seasoned meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a winner every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or meal prepping for busy days, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking and enjoy the wonderful aromas and tastes it fills your kitchen with. This baked ziti is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

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