Cheesy Baked Ziti
A heartwarming dish of cheesy baked ziti, perfect for family gatherings and busy evenings, combining pasta, marinara, and layers of gooey cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta Ingredients
- 12 ounces ziti or penne pasta The tube shape holds onto the cheesy sauce.
Sauces and Cheeses
- 3 cups marinara sauce Use your favorite, whether homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese Can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Consider a blend of mozzarella and provolone for extra flavor.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Feel free to use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Meat and Veggies
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage Optional; use mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced The aromatic hero of our dish.
Cooking Essentials
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano Essential for the Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Essential for the Italian flavor.
Instructions
Preparing the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti or penne and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Meat
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat, cooking until browned. Stir in the minced garlic toward the end to release its aroma.
Combining Ingredients
- In the skillet, mix in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and cooked pasta. Stir lightly to combine.
Layering the Ziti
- In a 9 x 13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture, add dollops of ricotta cheese, then half of the mozzarella. Add the remaining pasta on top.
Topping and Baking
- Finish with the rest of the marinara sauce, remaining mozzarella, and a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition. To spice it up, add red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or chickpeas.