Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
• For the Cheese Mixture:
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti (or penne) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   • Add the diced onion and garlic to the meat and cook until the onion softens, about 3–4 minutes.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and the egg until smooth.
4. Assemble the Baked Ziti:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • In the baking dish, mix the cooked pasta with half of the meat sauce, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated.
   • Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta in an even layer.
   • Pour the remaining meat sauce on top of the ricotta mixture.
   • Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

This baked ziti is a perfect family meal or comfort food dish. Let me know if you’d like to customize it or have any other questions!