Description
Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce
Ingredients:
500g ziti or penne pasta
500g ground beef
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the ziti in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once browned, drain excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Assemble the Ziti: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Add ricotta cheese and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Mix until well combined.
5. Bake the Ziti: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with garlic bread or a side salad.
This baked ziti is cheesy, hearty, and a family favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions!
#BakedZiti #ComfortFood
