Baked Ziti
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce. Stir in the ricotta cheese until well mixed.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to brown the top.
- Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes:
For a richer flavor, you can add some cooked Italian sausage or mushrooms to the meat sauce. You can also use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar cheese for a different cheese blend.
About This Dish:
Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty Italian-American dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd. It combines tender pasta with a savory meat sauce and layers of melted cheese, making it a family favorite for any occasion.
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 20g |
User Reviews:
Emily R.: "This Baked Ziti was a hit with my family! The cheesy, gooey goodness was exactly what we needed for a cozy dinner. Will definitely make it again."
John D.: "I love how easy and satisfying this recipe is. The combination of the rich meat sauce and melted cheese is perfect. Great recipe for a weeknight meal."