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A delicious serving of baked ziti topped with melted cheese and fresh herbs.

Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a classic dish combining layers of cheesy goodness, tender pasta, and savory meat sauce—a comfort food perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
  4. Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, making sure to break it up with a spoon.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
  6. In a large bowl, mix the cooked ziti pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  7. Combine the pasta mixture with the meat sauce until well coated.
  8. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Baked ziti can be served with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. Garnish with fresh basil or crushed red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.