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Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

Cheesy Baked Ziti Recipe

This cheesy baked ziti recipe features tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and plenty of melted mozzarella for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 jar 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 1 can 14 ounces diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Cheese Layer
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the ground beef and onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened.
  5. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  6. Add the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  8. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce.
  9. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  10. Spoon the ricotta mixture over the pasta and spread gently.
  11. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.
  12. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  13. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Allow the baked ziti to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta slightly under al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Let the casserole rest before slicing.
  • Drain excess grease from the meat before adding the sauce.
  • Cover loosely with foil if the cheese browns too quickly.