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Cheesy Baked Ziti

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Cheesy Baked Ziti is a comforting casserole layered with tender pasta, rich tomato meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheeses—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add garlic and cook for another minute, then add ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to blend flavors.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir in ricotta, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix well.
  7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
  • Use any short pasta like penne or rigatoni if ziti is unavailable.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cheesy-baked-ziti-2/