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Cheesy Baked Ziti

This Cheesy Baked Ziti is a comforting crowd-pleaser! Layers of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese make it irresistible.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Keyword: Cheesy, Comfort Food, Pasta
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Step 1: Cook the Ziti. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s at a rolling boil, add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
  • Step 3: Add the Sauce and Seasoning. Once the beef is cooked, pour in the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
  • Step 5: Assemble the Ziti. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce mixture at the bottom. Then, layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the ziti, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
  • Step 6: Bake the Ziti. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Step 7: Let it Rest and Serve. Once out of the oven, let the ziti sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set and makes for easier slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Baking Dish
  • Spatula or Wooden Spoon
  • Aluminum Foil

Notes

  • Prepare in advance by assembling and refrigerating before baking.
  • Feel free to add seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition.
  • This dish can be frozen unbaked for up to three months!