Freezer-Friendly Baked Ziti 

Freezer-Friendly Baked Ziti 🍝❄️

A hearty, cheesy, and easy-to-make pasta casserole that’s perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or feeding a crowd. Assemble ahead, freeze, and bake whenever you need a comforting meal!

Ingredients *(Serves 6-8)*

For the Baked Ziti:

• 1 lb (450g) ziti or penne pasta

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage, turkey, or plant-based crumbles)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or 3 cups homemade)

• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup (100g) shredded Parmesan cheese

• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For Freezing:

• Aluminum foil

• Freezer-safe baking dish (or disposable aluminum pan)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil ziti in salted water until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.

2. Add onion and cook until soft (~3 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Pour in marinara, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.

3. Assemble the Ziti:

1. In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, meat sauce, ricotta, and half the mozzarella and Parmesan.

2. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish (or divide into two smaller dishes for freezing).

3. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

4. Bake or Freeze:

• To Bake Now:

  • Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

  • Uncover and bake 10-15 more minutes until bubbly and golden.

  • Garnish with parsley and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

• To Freeze for Later:

  • Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Baking from Frozen:

    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

    • Bake covered for 50-60 minutes, then uncover and bake 10-15 minutes until heated through.

🔥 Pro Tips:

✅ No-boil pasta hack: Use uncooked ziti—just add extra sauce and ½ cup water before freezing.
✅ Gluten-free: Use GF pasta and check sauce labels.
✅ Vegetarian: Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad.

• Meal prep: Portion into individual containers for easy lunches.

This freezer-friendly baked ziti is a lifesaver—cheesy, saucy, and always delicious! 😋

Variation: Add roasted bell peppers or sliced olives for extra flavor! 🫑