Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta and Protein
01 -
1 lb ziti pasta
02 -
1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
→ Vegetables and Aromatics
03 -
1 small onion, diced
04 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
→ Sauce and Seasonings
06 -
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
07 -
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
08 -
1 teaspoon salt
09 -
½ teaspoon black pepper
→ Cheese
10 -
2 cups ricotta cheese
11 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
12 -
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 -
Cook ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 -
Brown ground beef and onion in a large skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
04 -
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
05 -
Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Add the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining cheeses.
06 -
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 15 more minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
07 -
Allow to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, undercook the pasta slightly as it will continue to cook in the oven.
02 -
This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking.