Description
Transform your dinner routine with a dish that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite: Baked Ziti. This hearty, comforting meal combines tender ziti noodles, savory meats, rich pasta sauce, and creamy cheeses, all baked to perfection. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also efficient—prepared in just one pot and serving enough to cover another meal. Follow this simple recipe for a win-win situation at your dinner table tonight.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Ground Beef: For a rich, meaty base.
- 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage: Adds a spicy, flavorful kick.
- 1 box Ziti Noodles: The star of the dish, perfectly shaped to hold the sauce and cheese.
- 2 jars Garlic and Herb Pasta Sauce: Simplifies the seasoning and enriches the dish.
- 4 oz Ricotta Cheese: Introduces a creamy, rich texture.
- 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese: For that irresistibly melty, gooey topping.
- Seasonings of Your Choice: Customize the flavor to your liking.
- Parsley: For garnish, adding a fresh touch.
Instructions
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Prep the Pasta: Start by boiling the ziti noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. You want them slightly undercooked since they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain and set aside.
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Cook the Meats: In a large pot, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. This is the time to add your preferred seasonings—anything from Italian seasoning to a simple salt and pepper mix will enhance the meat’s flavor.
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Combine with Sauce: Once the meat is fully cooked and seasoned, stir in the garlic and herb pasta sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, blending the flavors together.
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Mix in Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked ziti noodles to the pot, stirring to ensure they’re evenly coated with the meat sauce. Next, fold in the ricotta cheese, distributing it throughout the pasta for pockets of creamy texture.
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Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. For an added touch of color and flavor, garnish with chopped parsley. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the edges to become slightly crispy.
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Broil for Perfection: For a golden-brown, bubbly cheese topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the baked ziti is golden and bubbly, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the dish to set, making it easier to cut into servings.
Notes
Tips for Success:
- Make Ahead: Baked Ziti is a great make-ahead meal. Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if coming straight from the fridge.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm throughout.
Baked Ziti is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in harmony, promising a satisfying dining experience. It’s the perfect dish for those nights when you crave something hearty and comforting, yet easy enough to not spend all evening in the kitchen. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of this one-pot wonder, and savor the smiles it brings to your dinner table.
