Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compete with the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty baked ziti. This Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti recipe combines perfectly cooked pasta with a rich meat sauce and an indulgent blend of cheeses, making it a favorite for families and gatherings alike. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply craving a dish that hugs you from the inside out, baked ziti stands out as a quintessential choice.

Discover the warmth of Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti, a beloved comfort food that combines tender ziti pasta with a rich meat sauce and a melty cheese blend. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish offers adaptability, allowing you to customize it with seasonal vegetables or different proteins. With a blend of Italian-American roots and satisfying flavors, this baked ziti promises to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy the step-by-step guide and elevate your cooking skills today!

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Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 teaspoons dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-5 minutes.

Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.

Transfer the ziti mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves, if desired.

Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6