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–+ servings

Baked Ziti For Two

If you think baked ziti is just a big batch situation, think again. These individual skillets are perfectly portioned and packed with everything you love about a classic baked ziti. Cheesy, saucy, with those golden, crispy tops that make it so good straight out of the oven.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time40 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Yields2 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Servings2 servings

Ingredients

PASTA & SAUCE

  • 6 ounces ziti pasta
  • 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1/2 tablespoon finely minced garlic
  • 1/2 pound ground beef, 90/10 or 85/15
  • 3/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan

CHEESE LAYERS

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan

Instructions 

COOK THE PASTA

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ziti until al dente.
  2. Drain and set aside.

MAKE THE MEAT SAUCE

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. In a pan over medium heat, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and saute for a minute until fragrant and golden.
  3. Then add the ground beef and break it up as it cooks with a wooden spoon or spatula and season with salt and black pepper. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks.
  4. Add the minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the marinara sauce and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Stir in the chopped basil and parmesan, then add the cooked pasta and mix until everything is well coated.

ASSEMBLE THE SKILLETS

  1. In two mini oven-safe skillets, add enough of the pasta mixture to fill each skillet halfway.
  2. Add dollops of ricotta, then sprinkle mozzarella, then parmesan.
  3. Add more pasta on top.
  4. Finish with another layer of ricotta dollops, mozzarella, and parmesan.

BAKE

  1. Place the skillets in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Broil for the last 1–2 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
  3. Let them sit for a few minutes before serving and enjoying!

Notes

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the skillets ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if going in cold.
Q: What can I use instead of ground beef?
A: Ground turkey or chicken works great here, or even a mix of both.
Q: Do I HAVE to use mini skillets?
A: No, you can bake everything in one small baking dish instead. Just adjust the bake time slightly if needed.
Q: How do I know when it’s done?
A: The cheese should be fully melted, bubbling around the edges, and lightly golden on top after broiling.
Q: Can I make it extra cheesy?
A: Always. Add more mozzarella on top or even mix some into the pasta before assembling.

Did You Make This Recipe?

If you make this recipe, leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out. I love hearing from you!