Greek Baked Ziti Recipe

I absolutely love this Greek Baked Ziti Recipe because it transforms everyday comfort food into something a bit more special with those warm Mediterranean flavors. When I first tried combining ziti with a savory beef tomato sauce infused with oregano, cinnamon, and lemon juice, it immediately became a family favorite. You’ll find this dish perfect for cozy dinners or when you want a crowd-pleasing meal that’s thoughtfully layered with flavor without a ton of fuss.

This Greek Baked Ziti Recipe is also incredibly versatile and forgiving, which is wonderful when you’re juggling a busy kitchen. The creamy Parmesan béchamel layer adds a luxurious touch that lifts the classic baked ziti into something truly memorable. Trust me, once you make it a few times, the balance of spices and cheeses will have you making it again and again.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Greek Baked Ziti Recipe come together like old friends—each plays a role in adding texture and flavor. When you’re shopping, look for a good-quality tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella if possible to really elevate the final dish.

• Ziti pasta: Makes a perfect shape for holding sauce and cheese in every bite.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed; a kitchen staple.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and a touch of Mediterranean authenticity.
• Garlic cloves: Minced for that punch of fragrant flavor that wakes up the sauce.
• Lean ground beef: Choose lean so the sauce isn’t too greasy but still hearty.
• Tomato sauce: The base for your beef mixture; smooth and rich is best.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with a subtle tang.
• Dried oregano: Essential herb for that unmistakably Greek aroma.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance acidity in the tomato sauce.
• Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds unique depth without overwhelming.
• Kosher salt: Divided for seasoning meat and béchamel sauce perfectly.
• Butter: For the base of the creamy béchamel sauce.
• All-purpose flour: Thickens the béchamel for a luxuriously smooth texture.
• Milk: Creates that classic creaminess in your white sauce.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami richness and savory notes.
• Freshly ground black pepper: For that subtle spicy kick in the béchamel.
• Vegetable cooking spray: Helps prevent sticking and gives an even bake.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy top layer.
• Fine, dry breadcrumbs: Add a delightful crunch to finish off the bake.
• Fresh basil: For garnish; fresh herbal brightness on top.

Variations

I’ve found that tweaking this Greek Baked Ziti Recipe can make it your own, whether you’re adapting for dietary needs or just looking to mix things up. Feel free to experiment a bit and find what suits your family’s taste best!

• Meat Variation: Swap the ground beef for ground lamb or turkey for a different but delicious protein twist. I used ground lamb once and the Mediterranean vibe was even stronger, which my family loved.
• Vegetarian Version: Leave out the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant to pack in flavor and texture. You won’t miss the meat at all! I do this when friends who don’t eat meat join us.
• Spice Level: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like things with a kick. I sometimes sprinkle in a bit to balance the richness.
• Creamy Cheese Swap: Use feta cheese in place of some mozzarella to amp up the Greek vibe and add tanginess. It’s my secret ingredient when I want something truly distinctive.

How to Make Greek Baked Ziti Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Just Right

Start by boiling your ziti pasta according to the package directions — but don’t overcook it. You’ll want the pasta a tiny bit firmer than usual (al dente) because it will keep cooking in the oven and soak up flavors without turning mushy. Drain and set aside while you prepare the beef sauce and béchamel.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, toss in your chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent—about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up and cooking until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep things nice and balanced.

Step 3: Simmer the Greek-Style Meat Sauce

Stir in the tomato sauce, fresh lemon juice, oregano, sugar, cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt into the browned beef mixture. Bring it gently to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside—it’s going to shine with those bold yet comforting flavors.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Béchamel

In a separate large saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in flour and cook constantly for about 2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in milk, then increase heat to medium and keep whisking for 5 to 7 minutes until thick and bubbly. Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. This sauce is what makes this Greek Baked Ziti Recipe extra creamy and irresistible.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Béchamel and Layer

Toss the cooked pasta in your béchamel sauce until each ziti is nicely coated. Transfer this creamy pasta mixture to a lightly greased 13×9-inch baking dish. Then gently spoon the beef tomato sauce evenly over the top, followed by shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs for that perfect golden crunch.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Bake the assembled dish at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll want the cheese on top fully melted and the whole thing bubbling around the edges. Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes—this lets the layers set and makes serving much easier.

How to Serve Greek Baked Ziti Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this dish with fresh basil leaves—it adds that burst of herbal freshness that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese and savory beef. Sometimes, I grate a little extra Parmesan right before serving for an even cheesier experience.

Side Dishes

A crisp Greek salad with cucumber, tomato, olives, and feta is my go-to side for this Greek Baked Ziti Recipe. You can also serve warm pita bread or garlic roasted vegetables to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to serve this in individual ramekins topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds to bring in a pop of color and a subtle tartness. It makes the meal feel extra festive and thought-out.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Greek Baked Ziti keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually portion it out so everyone can grab an easy reheat during busy weeknights.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this dish a few times by wrapping it tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and it thaws beautifully overnight in the fridge. Just keep in mind that béchamel sauce can change texture slightly, so I recommend reheating gently.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to keep the moisture in. It takes about 20 minutes to heat through, and the cheese melts nicely again. You can also use the microwave but keep in mind the topping may lose some crispness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Greek Baked Ziti Recipe has such a warm spot in my kitchen rotation because it combines familiar comforts with a sprinkle of delicious Greek character. I love sharing it with friends and family because everyone seems to enjoy the cozy layers of flavor and creamy cheese. I really hope you give this recipe a try—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a hug on a plate and never disappoints.

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