Description
This easy, creamy, and cheesy baked ziti is the perfect comfort food! Made with layers of rich tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and ricotta cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ziti pasta
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta until slightly under al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Make the meat sauce: Brown the ground beef, add onion & garlic, then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix the cheese filling: Combine ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, and parsley.
- Assemble the dish: Layer half of the pasta, half the sauce, and half the cheese mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Repeat layers. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Rest for 5 minutes, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for more nutrition.
- Make ahead: Assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Pasta, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American