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Easy Baked Ziti Recipe for a Quick Comfort Meal
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Easy Baked Ziti Recipe for a Quick Comfort Meal

This easy baked ziti recipe combines rich marinara, melted cheese, and hearty pasta. Perfect for busy nights or cozy family dinners.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Kitchen: Italian-American
Keyword: baked pasta, comfort food recipes, easy recipes, family dinner
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Dorothy

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half the Parmesan cheese.
  7. Spread half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce and half of the mozzarella.
  8. Repeat the layers, ending with mozzarella cheese on top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.