Description
Craving comfort food? This Ultimate Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti is your answer! Loaded with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or simply treating yourself to some hearty Italian goodness. Get ready for a warm, cheesy hug in every bite!
Ingredients
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Get that oven hot and ready to receive the ziti goodness!
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Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside—don’t forget to save some water from cooking for later!
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In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute—oh, that garlic aroma is divine!
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Your kitchen is going to start feeling like Italy!
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, the meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix until the pasta is well coated—this is where the love happens!
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In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Top with half of the mozzarella and half of the Parmesan cheese.
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Add the remaining pasta and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Just look at that cheesy mountain of joy!
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!