Introduction
Welcome to the world of comforting home-cooked meals! This Killer Baked Ziti is a true crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With layers of ziti pasta mingling with rich tomato sauce and a blend of creamy cheeses, each bite offers a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s easy enough for any home cook to whip up. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get things warm and cozy.
- In a large pot, cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture. Drain it and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, cooking until it turns a lovely brown color.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing all those beautiful flavors to meld together.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until everything is well-coated.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, pour half of the luscious meat sauce as your first layer. Follow this with half of the ziti mixture.
- Pour the remaining meat sauce over the ziti layer, and then layer on the rest of the ziti mixture.
- Finish off by generously topping everything with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a cheesy dream.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in, then bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden, tempting you from the oven.
- Let the baked ziti sit for a few minutes before diving in. Garnish with fresh basil if you wish, adding a pop of color and freshness!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to substitute the ground beef or sausage with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for some heat. This recipe also makes great leftovers, so don’t hesitate to double it for a satisfying meal later in the week!
Cooking Techniques
While making baked ziti may seem straightforward, a few techniques can elevate your dish. Sautéing the onion and garlic until their natural sweetness develops really enhances the overall flavor. Similarly, letting the sauce simmer helps deepen the taste. Lastly, the layering technique ensures every bite is filled with cheesy goodness and savory sauce.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the ziti a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few more minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.
What should I serve with baked ziti? A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!
Conclusion
This Killer Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with delicious layers and comforting flavors. The warm aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Whether you’re sharing with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!