Baked Ziti Recipe

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Need a crowd-pleaser for dinner? This Baked Ziti Recipe is your go-to solution! With layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals. It’s hearty, delicious, and incredibly easy to prepare.

 Ingredients:

– 1 pound ziti pasta

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 onion, finely chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 pound ground Italian sausage

– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– Salt and pepper, to taste

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

 Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

3. Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. 

4. Add the tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Combine the sauce and pasta: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the prepared sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.

6. Assemble the baked ziti: Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese evenly over the mozzarella. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture, shredded mozzarella, and ricotta cheese.

7. Top with Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the assembled ziti.

8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.

9. Garnish and serve: Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

This baked ziti is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. Enjoy!