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Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked Ziti Recipe: Cheesy and Comforting

Cheesy baked ziti with beef and marinara.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ziti pasta
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1 can 15 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese divided
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil
  • Cooking spray
  • Optional: Basil leaves
  • Suggested Pairings: Garlic bread salad

Instructions
 

  • Cook ziti al dente; drain.
  • Heat oil; cook onion for 4-5 minutes, garlic for 1 minute. Add beef and cook for 6-8 minutes. Add marinara, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Mix ziti, sauce, ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil.
  • Spread in a greased 9x13-inch dish; top with 1 cup mozzarella.
  • Bake at 375°F, covered, for 20 minutes; uncover and bake for 10-15 minutes.
  • Garnish with basil; serve with bread and salad.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente.
  • Store in fridge for 4 days, freeze for 3 months.
  • Try a vegetarian variation.
  • Pair with wine.