Description

This Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti is the epitome of comfort food, featuring tender ziti pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with layers of gooey, melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ziti pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
1 onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the crushed tomatoes, ricotta cheese, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until heated through.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce, mixing well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella cheese and all of the Parmesan cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the baked ziti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Variations & Substitutions: - Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. - Different Cheeses: Use a combination of cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda for a unique flavor. - Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a bit of heat. Storage & Reheating Instructions: - Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. - Freezing: Freeze before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. - Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 620
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 85mg