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Baked Ziti Recipe

Baked Ziti Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds Every Time

This Baked Ziti recipe is the perfect comfort food, combining layers of pasta, marinara sauce, and cheese for a dish that wows your taste buds every time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Ziti Pasta Penne or rigatoni can also be used.
For the Sauce
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef or Italian Sausage Use cooked vegetables for a lighter option.
For the Cheesy Filling
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be used as a lighter alternative.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Fresh mozzarella elevates flavor.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Use grated for best results.
For Flavor Enhancers
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Fresh Basil Leaves Dried basil is an alternative but fresh is preferred.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Ziti Recipe
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt to boil. Cook the ziti pasta until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage for about 5-7 minutes, breaking apart until browned.
  3. Stir in the marinara sauce with the cooked meat. Let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
  4. In a large bowl, mix cooked ziti with ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, and basil leaves. Stir until evenly coated.
  5. Layer half of the meat sauce in a baking dish, followed by half of the pasta mixture. Repeat with remaining sauces and pasta.
  6. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving, and enjoy warm with extra marinara sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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