Description
A classic Italian-American dish featuring layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (chopped, optional)
- Salt and pepper (for seasoning)
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, then pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Let simmer for a few minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the mozzarella cheese; add a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Drain the cooked ziti and mix it into the meat sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the ziti and meat mixture, then spoon the ricotta and mozzarella mixture over it. Add the remaining ziti and meat on top.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan or Pecorino cheese over the top.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the Baked Ziti sit for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Baked Ziti pairs well with a simple salad and garlic bread. You can make it ahead of time for enhanced flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg