Description
A comforting and hearty dish made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the ziti: Boil a large pot of salted water, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the meat: In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Combine ingredients: In a bowl, mix the cooked meat, ziti, marinara sauce, and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and add Parmesan or Pecorino cheese.
- Bake the ziti: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it rest: Remove from the oven and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve hot with fresh basil and sides like garlic bread or a salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Baked Ziti, Italian Pasta, Comfort Food, Family Dinner