Pin it
A perfect fusion of homemade meatballs and classic baked ziti creates the ultimate Italian comfort dish. The combination of tender pasta, savory meatballs, rich marinara, and indulgent burrata cheese transforms simple ingredients into a memorable family meal.
After discovering how the burrata melts into creamy pockets throughout the dish, regular mozzarella just doesn't compare. My family now requests this version specifically for birthday dinners.
Essential Ingredients:
- Ziti pasta: Holds sauce in its tubes
- Ground meat blend: Pork and beef for flavorful meatballs
- Burrata cheese: Creates creamy pockets
- Quality marinara: Use homemade or premium jarred
- Fresh basil: Adds brightness
- Italian seasonings: Develops depth of flavor
Pin it
Detailed Instructions:
- Prepare Meatballs
- Mix meats with breadcrumbs and seasonings
- Form small, uniform balls
- Brown in batches until golden
- Set aside while still pink inside
- Cook Pasta
- Boil ziti 2 minutes less than package
- Reserve pasta water
- Drain but don't rinse
- Toss with olive oil
- Layer Components
- Mix pasta with marinara
- Add meatballs throughout
- Top with torn burrata
- Finish with Parmesan
- Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil initially
- Remove foil last 10 minutes
- Watch for bubbly edges
- Let rest before serving
The first time I made this, I discovered that letting it rest for 15 minutes after baking allows the cheese to set perfectly without becoming runny.
Make-Ahead Magic:
Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, bringing to room temperature before baking.
Cheese Selection:
While burrata is ideal, fresh mozzarella or a mix of cheeses works beautifully too.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair with garlic bread and a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
Leftovers Guide:
Portions reheat wonderfully, covered with foil in a low oven.
Pin it
Chef's Tips:
- Use cold hands for meatball forming
- Create cheese pockets throughout
- Season each layer independently
Years of perfecting this recipe have taught me that patience with the meatball browning and strategic cheese placement creates the most satisfying combination of flavors and textures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen meatballs?
- Yes, but homemade gives best flavor. Thaw first.
- → What's burrata?
- Fresh Italian cheese with creamy center. Mozzarella works too.
- → Can I make ahead?
- Assemble up to day ahead. Add extra time if baking cold.
- → Can I freeze it?
- Freeze without burrata up to 3 months. Add fresh when baking.
- → Other pasta options?
- Penne or rigatoni work well too.