Description
A hearty baked ziti with layers of meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked ziti, half of the meat sauce, half of the ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve.
Notes
Pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian