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Easy Baked Ziti Recipe: A Comforting Classic for Every Occasion

Easy Baked Ziti Recipe: A Comforting Classic for Every Occasion

Crispy - Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks Recipepin srecipes
A cheesy, hearty, and delicious easy baked ziti recipe that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, and gatherings. Made with rich tomato sauce, flavorful beef, and gooey melted cheese!
4 from 1 vote
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 8 portions
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Wooden Spoon

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta

  • 1 lb ziti pasta or penne
  • 1 tsp salt for boiling water

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 jar marinara sauce 24 oz
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional

For the Cheese Mixture

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided

For Topping

  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and toss with olive oil.
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente (1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and toss with olive oil.
  • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in onions and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
  • Pour in marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  • In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Parmesan. Set aside.
  • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish. Add half the pasta, half the ricotta mixture, and half the mozzarella. Repeat layers.
    Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish. Add half the pasta, half the ricotta mixture, and half the mozzarella. Repeat layers.
  • Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 20 minutes covered. Uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  • Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
    Easy Baked Ziti Recipe: A Comforting Classic for Every Occasion

Video

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Keyword Baked Ziti, Best Baked Ziti, Easy Baked Ziti Recipe, Homemade Ziti Pasta
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