Gluten-Free Baked Ziti with Meatballs
This hearty and comforting Gluten-Free Baked Ziti with Meatballs is a family-friendly twist on an Italian-American classic, perfect for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor. Tender gluten-free ziti, savory homemade meatballs seasoned with garlic and herbs, and layers of marinara sauce meld together under a golden, bubbly blanket of mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This baked casserole brings bold flavors, a satisfying combination of textures, and a true crowd-pleaser appeal. With simple ingredients like gluten-free breadcrumbs and marinara sauce, this one-pan wonder is easy to prepare yet indulgent enough for special occasions. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a fragrant finish and enjoy a gluten-free dinner favorite that everyone at the table will love!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 12 oz gluten-free ziti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 0.5 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cups gluten-free marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the gluten-free ziti according to package instructions, being sure to leave it slightly al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, gluten-free breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. They do not need to be fully cooked as they will continue cooking in the oven. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce, then place the meatballs evenly over the pasta.
Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over the meatballs and pasta, spreading it evenly.
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Layer the remaining ziti over the cheese, then top with the remaining cup of marinara sauce.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3222 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 192.5 g | 247% | |
| Saturated Fat | 78.6 g | 393% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 733 mg | 244% | |
| Sodium | 6086 mg | 265% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 209.9 g | 76% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 11.8 g | 42% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.6 g | ||
| Protein | 176.7 g | 353% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.2 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 2493 mg | 192% | |
| Iron | 16.3 mg | 91% | |
| Potassium | 1630 mg | 35% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
