Baked Ziti Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the hearty, cheesy goodness of baked ziti. This classic Italian-American casserole is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to bring a bit of warmth and joy to the table. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a tried-and-true baked ziti recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

To make a delicious baked ziti, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of ziti pasta
• 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both for extra flavor)
• 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup of ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

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

1. Prepare the Sauce

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

1. Mix the Cheeses

• In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.

1. Assemble the Ziti

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked ziti, then top with half of the remaining meat sauce. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the top.
• Add the remaining ziti, then top with the rest of the meat sauce. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

1. Bake

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

1. Serve

• Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Baked Ziti

• Use Quality Ingredients: A great baked ziti starts with high-quality ingredients. Opt for a good marinara sauce or make your own from scratch for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or use a combination of different cheeses.

Conclusion

Baked ziti is the ultimate comfort food, combining pasta, meat, and cheese into a delicious and satisfying dish. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve at a gathering. Give it a try, and you’ll see why baked ziti is a beloved classic. Happy cooking!

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I hope this post inspires you to make a delicious baked ziti at home! Feel free to share your own variations and tips in the comments below. Buon appetito!