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Baked ziti is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. Originating from Italian-American cuisine, this hearty pasta bake combines layers of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a favorite among families and friends alike. Its versatility and deliciousness have turned baked ziti into a staple for potlucks, gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners. One particular recipe that stands out is the Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella. This dish takes the classic baked ziti to new heights with its perfect blend of flavors and textures, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

Easy Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Delight Baked Ziti featuring creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. This Italian-American favorite layers pasta, rich marinara sauce, and flavorful meats for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare ahead of time and loved by everyone, this delicious baked ziti brings warmth and togetherness to your table. Elevate your weeknight meals with this cheesy, hearty dish that’s sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

2 cups marinara sauce

15 oz ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package directions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside for later use.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Next, add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, draining any excess fat if necessary.

        Combine the Sauce Ingredients: Once the meat is browned, stir in the marinara sauce, along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

          Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing well until everything is evenly combined.

            Assemble the Ziti: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, ensuring that the pasta is well-coated. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom of the dish. Next, spoon dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta, followed by the remaining ziti. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

              Bake the Ziti: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. The dish should be bubbly and the cheese on top should be golden brown.

                Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. For a touch of freshness, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the baked ziti warm and savor the cheesy goodness!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 50 min | 6 servings