Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

Cheesy Baked Ziti is a quintessential comfort food that has graced the dinner tables of countless families. This hearty dish, with its layers of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, is not just a meal; it's a celebration of togetherness. In our fast-paced lives, homemade meals play a crucial role in fostering connections among family members. They provide a comforting sense of belonging and comfort that take us back to our childhood, where the aroma of a warm dish wafting from the kitchen signaled love and care.

Discover the joy of homemade Cheesy Baked Ziti, the ultimate comfort food that brings families together. This easy-to-make dish features layers of ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and special gatherings. Customize it to your taste with your choice of meats or vegetables. Perfectly satisfying and versatile, Cheesy Baked Ziti is not just a meal; it's a heartfelt experience that creates lasting memories. Enjoy this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress!

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Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

1 (15 oz) can ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the ziti pasta according to 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 sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Add dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

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

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the ziti mixture in the bottom.

Spoon half of the remaining meat sauce over the ziti, followed by half of the remaining mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.

Repeat the layering process with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Cover the 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.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

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