Cheesy Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is a cherished staple in many homes, renowned for its comforting combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, offering a hearty meal that warms both the body and soul. Among the myriad of baked pasta dishes, the Zesty Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight stands out, elevating traditional flavors with a zesty twist that makes it an instant favorite. Whether you're hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe promises to satisfy taste buds and create lasting memories around the dinner table.

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Zesty Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight! This delicious dish combines al dente ziti pasta, savory meat sauce, and layers of gooey cheese for an unforgettable meal that warms the heart. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it's easy to customize for various tastes. From the rich flavors to delightful textures, this baked ziti is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings people together around the table. Enjoy the magic of cooking and create lasting memories!

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Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta

1 lb Italian sausage (or ground beef)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

28 oz can crushed tomatoes

15 oz ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tsp dried oregano

2 tsp dried basil

1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the Italian sausage (or ground beef) and brown until no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Assemble the Ziti: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti on the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta, then dollop half of the ricotta mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture.

Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings