Cheesy, Savory Prime Rib Stuffed Baked Ziti

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty, cheesy pasta dish, especially when it’s packed with tender, flavorful prime rib. Cheesy, Savory Prime Rib Stuffed Baked Ziti is the ultimate indulgence for cozy evenings at home, family gatherings, or special occasions where you want to impress without stress. Imagine sinking your fork into perfectly cooked ziti noodles smothered in rich, creamy cheeses and layered with juicy, seasoned slices of leftover prime rib—every bite melts in your mouth with savory goodness.

This recipe was inspired by the classic Italian-American baked ziti tradition, elevated with a luxurious twist. Instead of the usual ground beef or sausage, prime rib takes center stage, offering a sophisticated yet comforting meal. It’s perfect for transforming holiday leftovers into a show-stopping dinner or for creating a family-favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta

• 2 cups cooked prime rib, thinly sliced or shredded

• 3 cups marinara sauce

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Toss lightly with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.

2. Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining olive oil. This ensures the ziti doesn’t stick and creates a golden, crispy edge.

3. Mix the cheese filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until the cheese mixture is smooth and evenly seasoned.

4. Combine pasta and sauce

In a separate large bowl, mix the cooked ziti with 2 cups of marinara sauce, ensuring all the noodles are coated. For a richer flavor, reserve a small amount of sauce to spread on the bottom of the baking dish.

5. Layer the ziti and prime rib

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add half of the pasta mixture, then layer half of the sliced prime rib over the pasta. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the prime rib. Repeat with the remaining pasta, prime rib, and cheese mixture, finishing with a final layer of marinara sauce.

6. Top with cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a light dusting of Parmesan cheese or some red pepper flakes if you enjoy a subtle kick.

7. Bake to perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.

8. Rest and garnish

Allow the baked ziti to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and fresh flavor. This step ensures the dish sets slightly and makes serving easier.

9. Serve and enjoy

Scoop generous portions onto plates and enjoy a comforting, cheesy, savory meal. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete, indulgent dinner experience.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Yield: 6–8 servings

Notes

• Prime rib options: Leftover prime rib works perfectly for this dish, but you can also use freshly cooked prime rib slices if available. Make sure they are thinly sliced for even layering.

• Cheese variations: Feel free to experiment with fontina or provolone instead of mozzarella for a slightly different flavor profile.

• Make-ahead tip: Assemble the baked ziti a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake covered for 35–40 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes before serving.

• Freezing instructions: This baked ziti freezes well. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 60–70 minutes.

• Spice adjustment: The crushed red pepper flakes are optional. Omit for a milder dish or increase for a spicier kick.

Why This Recipe Works

Cheesy, Savory Prime Rib Stuffed Baked Ziti is more than just a pasta dish—it’s a culinary experience. Each layer is carefully designed to complement the others:

• Tender ziti provides the perfect canvas, absorbing the flavors of the sauce and cheese.

• Savory prime rib adds richness and depth, elevating a simple baked ziti into a feast-worthy meal.

• Creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella create a luscious texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender noodles and meaty slices.

• Marinara sauce ties all the flavors together with a bright, slightly tangy note, balancing the richness of the cheeses and beef.

This combination of textures and flavors makes every bite satisfying and comforting. It’s ideal for a weekend family dinner, a cozy night in, or a celebratory gathering where you want to serve something that feels both special and homemade.

Tips for Perfect Baked Ziti

1. Al dente pasta: Avoid overcooking the ziti before baking. Al dente noodles hold their shape during baking and prevent a mushy texture.

2. Even layering: Distribute the prime rib and cheese evenly. This ensures every bite has a balanced mix of flavors.

3. Rest before serving: Letting the baked ziti rest after coming out of the oven helps the dish set and makes serving cleaner.

4. Customize your sauce: Add sautéed onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the marinara sauce for extra flavor. You can even stir in a splash of cream for a richer sauce.

5. Cheese topping: For an extra golden crust, broil the ziti for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Perfect Pairings

Cheesy, Savory Prime Rib Stuffed Baked Ziti pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic bread: Crunchy and buttery, perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.

• Fresh green salad: Arugula or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the ziti.

• Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the cheesy, savory flavors.

• Simple dessert: A light dessert like fresh berries or a lemon sorbet helps finish the meal on a refreshing note.

Transforming Leftovers

One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. If you have leftover prime rib or cooked pasta, this dish is a brilliant way to transform them into a new, elevated meal. Layer the ingredients just like in the original recipe, and you have a dish that feels freshly made, without starting from scratch. It’s an excellent example of turning holiday leftovers into a gourmet weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-pleaser: Rich, cheesy, and comforting, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults.

• Versatile: Works with leftover prime rib, freshly cooked beef, or even other meats like roasted chicken for a twist.

• Make-ahead friendly: Assemble in advance for easy weeknight dinners or entertaining.

• Customizable: Add vegetables, different cheeses, or spice variations to suit your family’s taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use leftover prime rib for this recipe?
Absolutely! In fact, leftover prime rib works perfectly for this dish. Using already cooked beef saves time and makes the recipe ideal for transforming holiday or special occasion leftovers into a brand-new meal. Just be sure to slice or shred the prime rib thinly for even layering and consistent flavor throughout the ziti. If your prime rib is particularly thick or fatty, you may want to trim any excess fat before adding it to the pasta to keep the dish from becoming too rich.

2. Can I make this baked ziti ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is very make-ahead friendly. You can assemble the ziti entirely and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, cover it with foil and extend the cooking time slightly to ensure it heats through evenly. Baking from chilled may take an extra 10–15 minutes, but it won’t affect the final texture or flavor. This option is perfect for entertaining or preparing dinner in advance, allowing you to enjoy a stress-free meal without last-minute prep.

3. Can I freeze Cheesy Prime Rib Baked Ziti?
Yes, this baked ziti freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 60–70 minutes. You may want to uncover for the last 10–15 minutes to achieve that bubbly, golden cheese topping. Freezing doesn’t compromise the taste or texture, making this recipe a convenient option for meal prep or large family gatherings.

4. Can I customize the cheese or add vegetables?
Definitely! While mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are classic choices that give this dish its creamy, cheesy goodness, you can experiment with other cheeses like fontina, provolone, or even gouda for a slightly different flavor profile. Adding vegetables is also a great way to boost nutrition and add freshness. Consider spinach, zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Lightly sauté any vegetables before layering them into the ziti to avoid excess moisture, which could make the dish watery. Adjust seasoning as needed to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy, Savory Prime Rib Stuffed Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and family. With layers of tender pasta, succulent prime rib, and creamy cheese, this dish captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. It’s perfect for turning leftovers into a star dish, for cozy weekend dinners, or for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Next time you have prime rib on hand, resist the urge to serve it simply—transform it into a baked ziti masterpiece that everyone will rave about. This recipe is not just food; it’s a memory-making experience around the dinner table.

Cheesy, Savory Prime Rib Stuffed Baked Ziti

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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Description

A comforting, indulgent baked pasta dish that combines tender ziti noodles with juicy prime rib, rich cheeses, and savory marinara sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or transforming leftover prime rib into a show-stopping meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ziti pasta

• 2 cups cooked prime rib, thinly sliced or shredded

• 3 cups marinara sauce

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.

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

• In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

• In another bowl, mix cooked ziti with 2 cups marinara sauce until noodles are coated. Reserve a small amount of sauce for the bottom of the baking dish.

• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the dish. Layer half the pasta, half the prime rib, and half the cheese mixture. Repeat with remaining pasta, prime rib, and cheese. Top with remaining marinara sauce.

• Sprinkle remaining mozzarella over the top. Optionally, add Parmesan or red pepper flakes.

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped basil if desired.

• Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread.

Notes

• Leftover prime rib works best, thinly sliced or shredded.

• Cheese substitutions: fontina or provolone can replace mozzarella.

• Make-ahead: assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• Freezing: assemble and freeze for up to 3 months; bake from frozen 60–70 minutes.

• For added vegetables, sauté spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers before layering.

• Optional: broil 2–3 minutes at the end for extra golden top.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

Michelle Davis