Family-Friendly Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together the rich flavors of pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheeses to create a perfect family meal. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for customization, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to perfect this classic Italian-American dish. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this guide will help you create a delicious Cheesy Baked Ziti that everyone will love.

Discover the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Baked Ziti Delight! This easy-to-make dish combines ziti pasta, savory meats, and a medley of creamy cheeses, creating a meal that the whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings, this recipe allows for customization to suit your taste. Follow our simple step-by-step guide to layer, bake, and serve this classic Italian-American favorite that’s sure to impress at your dinner table.

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Ingredients

12 oz ziti pasta

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

24 oz marinara sauce

1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese

1 large egg

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

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

Make the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, over medium heat, brown the ground beef (or sausage) with the diced onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the mozzarella cheese (½ cup), and Parmesan cheese. Mix until well blended.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated.

Layer the Ziti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture on the bottom, then spread the ricotta mixture evenly on top. Add the remaining pasta on top of the ricotta.

Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the ziti.

Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cool and Garnish: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6-8 people