Baked Ziti Recipe for 20 People: Easy and Delicious

Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort food that combines pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese all baked to perfection. It’s an ideal dish for large gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks because it feeds a crowd while offering hearty, satisfying flavors. This recipe ensures a creamy, flavorful baked ziti that will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds ziti pasta (or penne as an alternative)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 8 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 pounds ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
• 2 (28-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or 2 tablespoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two large 9×13-inch baking dishes or one large 12×18-inch pan to accommodate 20 servings.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta until just al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking apart with a spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 15-20 minutes to develop flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese (if using), half of the shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
7. Divide the pasta mixture evenly between the prepared baking dishes. Top each with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Cover each dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Let the baked ziti rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Tips

• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.
• To make ahead, assemble the baked ziti without baking and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
• For a creamier texture, mix in more ricotta or add a splash of heavy cream before baking.
• Use good quality cheese for the best flavor, and grate your own Parmesan for a fresher taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve baked ziti hot, accompanied by a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette and crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with this dish.

Variations

For a different twist, try adding cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables into the pasta mixture. You can also swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover baked ziti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. For best results, reheat in the oven to retain the crispy top layer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare baked ziti in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it covered. Bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

Can I freeze baked ziti?

Absolutely. Once cooled, wrap the baked ziti tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.

What pasta works best for baked ziti?

Ziti is traditional, but penne, rigatoni, or even large shell pasta work well. Choose pasta that holds sauce well and can stand up to baking.

How do I prevent the cheese from becoming too greasy or burnt?

Use high-quality cheese and bake uncovered only at the end to allow the cheese to brown. Also, avoid over-baking, which can cause the cheese to become greasy or burnt. A brief broil at the end can give a nice golden top if desired.

Is baked ziti suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free ziti or penne. Be sure to check all canned ingredients for gluten content and use gluten-free cheese and tomato products.

Can I make baked ziti vegan?

Yes, use plant-based cheese, vegan meat substitutes, and add plenty of vegetables. Ensure the pasta is vegan-friendly, and you can enhance flavor with herbs and spices.

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