Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake Recipe

The Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake Recipe is warm, cheesy and very comforting. It feels perfect for busy family dinners. This baked pasta dish is rich and filling.

It uses simple ingredients you may already have. The sauce is hearty. The cheese melts beautifully.

If you want to learn How to make Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake, this guide helps a lot. Below, you will also see clear Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake with easy steps.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight. I needed something easy and filling. This ziti bake saved the day. It was simple to prepare. The oven did most of the work.

The smell filled my kitchen fast. My family loved the cheesy layers. Everyone went back for seconds. Now, this dish is a regular meal in my home. It never disappoints.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake
• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minute
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups

Ingredients You Need for Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Boil the Pasta

Cook ziti in salted water until just tender. Drain well and set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish lightly.

3. Cook the Beef

Heat olive oil in skillet. Add beef and cook until brown. Break meat while cooking.

4. Add Onion and Garlic

Add onion and garlic to beef. Cook until soft and fragrant.

5. Add Sauce and Seasoning

Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning. Simmer for five minutes.

6. Mix Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked ziti to sauce. Stir gently until pasta is fully coated.

7. Layer the Dish

Spread half pasta mixture into baking dish. Add ricotta and some mozzarella evenly.

8. Add Final Layer

Top with remaining pasta. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

9. Bake the Ziti

Bake uncovered for thirty minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.

10. Rest and Serve

Let ziti bake rest five minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Tips to Make the Best Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake

• Do not overcook the pasta
• Use full-fat cheese for flavor
• Let dish rest before serving
• Season sauce well
• Use a deep baking dish

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the resting time
• Using dry pasta straight from box
• Adding too much sauce
• Forgetting to grease the dish
• Overbaking the ziti

Serving Suggestions

Serve this ziti bake with garlic bread or dinner rolls. A green salad adds freshness. Steamed vegetables also pair well. This dish works great for parties or family meals.

Variations You Can Try

• Use ground turkey instead of beef
• Add cooked sausage
• Mix in spinach
• Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta
• Add red pepper flakes

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftovers in airtight container
• Refrigerate up to four days
• Reheat in oven for best taste
• Cover with foil when reheating
• Freeze portions for later meals

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480 kcal
Protein	26 g
Fat	22 g
Carbs	42 g
Sodium	780 mg

Health Benefits

This recipe provides energy from pasta. Beef adds protein for strength. Cheese gives calcium for bones. Cooking at home lets you control ingredients. You can add vegetables to boost nutrition easily.

FAQs about Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake

Can I make Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it earlier and refrigerate it. Bake fresh when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this ziti bake?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.

What pasta can replace ziti?
You can use penne or rigatoni. They hold sauce well and bake nicely.

How do I keep baked ziti from drying out?
Cover with foil while reheating. Add a little sauce if needed.

Is this recipe good for large gatherings?
Yes, it feeds many people and stays warm. It is perfect for parties and potlucks.

Final Thoughts

The Pioneer Woman Ziti Bake Recipe is simple, hearty and very satisfying. It uses easy steps and basic ingredients.

This dish brings comfort to the table every time. If you need a reliable meal, try this recipe. It always makes people happy.