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Baked Ziti

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Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that combines ziti pasta with a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This hearty and delicious casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks and can be prepared ahead of time for an easy, satisfying meal.

Appliances and Special Utensils

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  3. Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

  4. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.

  5. Combine Sauces: Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  6. Mix Ricotta Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix well and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

  7. Assemble Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Add half of the cooked ziti pasta, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

  8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  9. Garnish and Serve: Let the baked ziti rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious and comforting Baked Ziti!