Gooey and Delicious Baked Ziti 🍝🧀

This baked ziti recipe is a delightful combination of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and an abundance of gooey cheese. It's the ultimate comfort food that's perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. With layers of flavor and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!

Pair it with a side salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings! 🥗🍞

Ingredients

For the ziti

• 1 pound ziti or penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional for a meatier dish)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. If using meat, add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

5. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

🍳 If you're looking for extra flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the sauce!

6. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly.

8. In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer half of the pasta mixture. Spread half of the ricotta mixture on top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

9. Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta mixture, and finish with the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

11. Allow to cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve!

🧀 For an extra cheesy finish, broil the baked ziti for a couple of minutes after baking—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian version! 🌱
• Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for an extra kick. 🌶️
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor!
• Freezer-friendly: To make ahead, assemble the ziti but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Dig in and enjoy the gooey delight of this classic baked ziti! 🍽️❤️