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Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti: The Ultimate Comfort Food You Need to Try

Cheesy Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy pasta, rich cheeses, and tangy marinara, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Ziti Pasta Penne or rigatoni can be used if ziti is unavailable.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef or Sausage Can be replaced with ground turkey or veggie crumbles.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Butter can be an alternative.
  • 1 medium Onion Substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic will elevate flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought can be utilized.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese blended smooth or cream cheese can be used.
  • 1 large Egg Omit for a vegan version.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Use nut cheese for non-dairy options.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Opt for low-moisture mozzarella for best results.
For Seasoning
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
Optional Extras
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust to personal spice preference.
  • to taste Fresh Herbs Use basil or parsley for garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Dish
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook for about 8 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground beef or sausage, stirring until browned. Pour in marinara sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  3. Mix Ricotta: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, egg, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  4. Layer Ingredients: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil. Layer half of the cooked ziti, then half of the ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and half of the meat sauce. Repeat this sequence, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  5. Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  6. Rest & Serve: Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, allow baked ziti to rest before serving and consider adding your favorite veggies or proteins.

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