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Baked Ziti

Irresistibly Cheesy Baked Ziti for Family Comfort Nights

This Baked Ziti recipe is a comforting family favorite, filled with gooey cheese and a rich marinara sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Appetizers & Side Dishes
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 1 box Ziti Pasta Penne or rigatoni are great alternatives.

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound Ground Beef or Italian Sausage Use ground turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter touch.
  • 1 jar Marinara Sauce Any store-bought or homemade marinara works beautifully.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Finely chop for even distribution.
  • 1 medium Onion Dice finely for a smooth sauce.

For the Cheese Mixture

  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese is a lighter substitute.
  • 3 cups Mozzarella Cheese Fresh mozzarella enhances flavor, shredded is convenient.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Consider using Pecorino Romano as an alternative.

For Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Basil Dried basil can be used if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Substitute with Italian seasoning for a solid flavor boost.

Instructions
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Ziti

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the ziti pasta. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil. Add ground beef or Italian sausage, cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.
  • Stir in marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes until bubbling.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, half of shredded mozzarella, and chopped basil. Stir thoroughly.
  • In a baking dish, spread half the meat sauce, then layer the ziti mixture, top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle with Parmesan, and bake for another 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Let the baked ziti rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize with veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg
Keyword Baked Ziti, cheesy pasta, Comfort Food, easy recipes, Family Dinner, Pasta Dish
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