Fake Baked Ziti
Looking for an easy weeknight dinner that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen? This Fake Baked Ziti is the perfect 30-minute meal that delivers all the comfort of a classic baked ziti—without the wait!
Equipment
- 1 9x13 baking dish
- 1 large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef browned and drained
- 1 24 oz jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 15 oz container ricotta cheese
- 1 16 oz box penne pasta (I used gluten-free brown rice & quinoa pasta), cooked and drained
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, combine browned ground beef with spaghetti sauce. Stir well over medium heat.
- Melt in Ricotta: Add ricotta cheese to the sauce mixture, stirring until fully melted and combined.
- Mix in Pasta: Add cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Assemble & Broil: Pour the pasta mixture into a 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Broil to Perfection: Place under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Notes
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
- Make ahead: Prepare everything up to step 4, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, heat on the stovetop and broil as instructed.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze before broiling. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat and broil as directed.