Ultimate Cheesy Baked Ziti

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of baked ziti. This classic Italian-American dish combines layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and an abundance of cheese, creating a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. Baked ziti is not just food; it’s an experience that brings families together around the dinner table, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia.

Discover the ultimate cheesy baked ziti, a timeless comfort food that your family will love. This rich Italian-American dish features layers of pasta, savory sauce, and a blend of cheeses, creating a satisfying meal that brings everyone together. Learn about the essential ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and creative variations to make it your own. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is sure to evoke warmth and nostalgia. Dive into the deliciousness today!

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Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 (15-ounce) can ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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

Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef or sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Mix Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly.

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti and the meat sauce, mixing well.

Assemble the Dish: In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Layer the ricotta cheese mixture on top, followed by the remaining ziti mixture. Finally, sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and all the grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Serve and Enjoy: Cut into squares and serve hot.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8