Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti is a signature pasta dish served at Maggiano’s Little Italy restaurants.

When I’m not sure what to cook for dinner, pasta is often my go-to choice. It’s easy to make, quick and has the power to turn a bad day around. I’ve collected some of my favorite pasta recipes in one place for easy reference. Whether I need a quick meal for a busy evening or crave something comforting and classic, I can find it all here.

Among these pasta recipes, one of my favorites is the Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti. It’s a dish that brings layers of flavor and comfort to the table. Whenever I make it, I can’t help but feel like I’m indulging in something truly special.

How To Make Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for greasing

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2:

Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3:

In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 4:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta, cooked Italian sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 5:

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 6:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

Step 7:

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.

Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti!

Tips For Perfect Taylor Street Baked Ziti

• To prevent your baked ziti from becoming mushy, cook the pasta until it is al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This ensures that the pasta retains its texture even after baking.
• Opt for high-quality Italian sausage with robust flavors to enhance the taste of your baked ziti. You can choose between sweet or spicy sausage, depending on your preference.
• When assembling your baked ziti, make sure to layer the ingredients evenly to ensure that each bite is packed with flavor. Spread the pasta and sauce mixture evenly in the baking dish, and distribute the cheese and other toppings uniformly.
• Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add brightness and freshness to your baked ziti. Simply sprinkle chopped herbs over the dish before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

What To Serve With Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti

When serving Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti, you can add some extra deliciousness with sides like warm garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping into the sauce. A simple Caesar salad with tangy dressing and Parmesan cheese makes a great companion.

You can also offer an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, and marinated veggies, or some roasted seasonal vegetables for a healthy twist. And if you want more protein, consider adding grilled or roasted Italian sausage links. These options make for a well-rounded and enjoyable meal that everyone will love.

How to Store

To store Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or wrapping them tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the baked ziti within two hours of cooking and consume it within three to four days for the best quality. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions or the entire dish in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.

To reheat refrigerated Taylor Street Baked Ziti, place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave in intervals until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw the ziti overnight in the refrigerator before reheating following the same microwave method or warming in the oven at a low temperature until hot.

Conclusion

I love The Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti! It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that always hits the spot. With tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in, this baked ziti recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

FAQ

What is Taylor Street Baked Ziti? Taylor Street Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American dish featuring ziti pasta baked with a hearty meat sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful pasta casserole.

Can I make Taylor Street Baked Ziti ahead of time? You can prepare the components in advance and assemble the dish when ready to bake. It’s a convenient option for meal planning.

What kind of cheese is used in this recipe? Maggiano’s Taylor Street Baked Ziti typically includes a blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses for a rich and gooey texture.

Can I customize the meat sauce? You can adjust the meat sauce by using a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage or incorporating additional herbs and spices for a personalized touch.

How long does it take to bake Taylor Street Baked Ziti? Generally, the baking time is around 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to achieve the desired level of golden brown on top