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When it comes to comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the soul, few dishes can rival Cheesy Baked Ziti. This Italian-American classic has found its way into homes across the nation, becoming a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy weeknight dinners. Its delightful layers of pasta, rich marinara sauce, and a medley of cheeses make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both children and adults alike.

Cheesy Baked Ziti – Family Favorite!

Discover the joy of Cheesy Baked Ziti, a comforting Italian-American classic loved by families everywhere. With layers of ziti pasta, savory marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses, this dish is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it to your liking, whether with meat or veggies, and enjoy easy preparation that's perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Follow simple steps to create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will adore.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese

1 egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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

      Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

        Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.

          Mix the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce to the meat mixture and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

            Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

              Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss cooked ziti pasta with the meat sauce mixture until well coated. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, mixing thoroughly.

                Layer the Ziti: Spread half of the ziti mixture evenly in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture on top, then sprinkle with the remaining ziti mixture. Finish by spreading the remaining ricotta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                    Garnish and Serve: Let the baked ziti cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8