Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta and Protein
01 -
1 lb ground beef (swap for Italian sausage if preferred)
02 -
1 lb ziti noodles
→ Vegetables and Aromatics
03 -
2 minced garlic cloves
04 -
1 diced small onion
05 -
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
→ Sauce and Seasonings
06 -
1 tablespoon of mixed Italian herbs
07 -
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
08 -
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
09 -
1 teaspoon of salt
→ Cheese
10 -
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
11 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
12 -
2 cups ricotta cheese
# Instructions:
01 -
Set oven to 375°F and grease your baking dish (9x13-inch).
02 -
Boil the ziti following the instructions on its package. Drain and leave aside.
03 -
In a skillet, brown the beef and onion over medium heat. Toss in garlic for about 1 minute. Add tomatoes and seasonings. Let simmer 10 minutes.
04 -
In a big mixing bowl, combine ricotta, cooked ziti, and the meat sauce mixture.
05 -
In your baking dish, spread half the pasta mix. Sprinkle half the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat for the second layer.
06 -
Cover the dish with foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and cook for another 15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
07 -
Cool for a short time and top with parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
Italian sausage can replace ground beef if you'd like.
02 -
Make sure the pasta is just cooked until firm since it will soften more while baking.
03 -
Let it sit after baking to make serving easier.