When it comes to satisfying comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty and cheesy baked ziti. This classic Italian-American dish is loved by many for its simplicity and delicious flavors. In this blog post, we’ll share with you an easy and foolproof recipe for baked ziti that you can whip up in no time. With layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to indulge in a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm your heart and please your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ziti pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 can (28 ounces/800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces/425g) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Pasta Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti pasta and the meat sauce. Toss gently to ensure all the pasta is coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Layer the Baked Ziti Grease a 9×13-inch (22x33cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Spread half of the pasta mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and cheeses.
Step 5: Bake the Ziti Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Remove the baked ziti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with a side of garlic bread or a crisp salad.
Conclusion:
This easy baked ziti recipe is a go-to option for a satisfying and delicious pasta dinner. With its layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that will please both kids and adults alike. The best part is, it can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Give this recipe a try and savor the comforting flavors of baked ziti. Your taste buds will thank you!