Baked Ziti Casserole

Baked Ziti is more than just a dish; it's a warm embrace on a plate, a classic comfort food that has found its way into the hearts and homes of many. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, this dish combines the heartiness of pasta with the richness of cheese and a robust tomato sauce, making it a beloved option for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, and potlucks. Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply indulging in a cozy dinner at home, Baked Ziti Casserole Delight is sure to impress with its delicious layers and satisfying flavors.

Discover the joy of Baked Ziti Casserole Delight, a comforting dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This Italian-American classic features layers of al dente pasta, savory meat, rich tomato sauce, and a trio of delectable cheeses. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings, it's easy to customize for dietary preferences. Dive into this flavorful masterpiece that brings everyone together with every delicious bite! #BakedZiti #ComfortFood #FamilyDinner #ItalianCuisine #RecipeIdeas #CasseroleDelight #FoodieFavorites #MealPrep

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Ingredients

1 pound ziti pasta

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (28-ounce) can marinara sauce

1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.

In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper.

In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, spread the ricotta cheese evenly over it, then top with the remaining pasta mixture.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8