If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a delicious, comforting meal, look no further than this ultimate baked ziti recipe! Baked ziti is a classic Italian-American dish that combines pasta, cheese, and a savory marinara sauce, all baked to perfection. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dining table.
A Glimpse of the Dish
Here’s what your baked ziti could look like: a bubbling, cheesy delight ready to be devoured!
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create the ultimate baked ziti:
- 12 oz ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your delicious baked ziti:
- 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 olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- In a large 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce at the bottom.
- Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture. Top with a third of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and another third of the mozzarella. Finish with a layer of the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle Parmesan on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it rest for about 10 minutes before servings to let it set. Enjoy your warm, cheesy baked ziti!
There’s nothing quite like a hearty baked ziti to bring everyone together. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this dish is sure to warm both hearts and bellies!
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source = dinnerthendessert.com