How to Cook Baked Ziti Plus Like A Professional

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If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious dish to warm up your evenings, look no further than this Easy Baked Ziti recipe! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. This hearty pasta dish is loaded with cheesy goodness and rich flavors. Here’s how to whip up your own mouthwatering baked ziti.

Delicious Baked Ziti

This baked ziti is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal. With layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Baked Ziti

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
  5. Add the ground meat to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  6. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
  8. Spread half of the meat sauce mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the ziti mixture on top, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers.
  9. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.

Now, dig into this cheesy, savory baked ziti that is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your dining table. It’s perfect for leftovers, and it tastes even better the next day! Enjoy with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.