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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the creamy cheesy goodness of baked ziti. This Italian-American classic is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a staple at family gatherings, and a reliable choice for feeding a crowd. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures - the creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and rich tomato sauce come together to create a dish that is both satisfying and indulgent. Not only is it incredibly delicious, but it is also straightforward to prepare, making it an ideal candidate for weeknight dinners or weekend celebrations.

Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti

Indulge in the comforting flavors of creamy cheesy baked ziti, a classic Italian-American dish that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. This recipe features al dente ziti pasta enveloped in a rich tomato sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and gooey mozzarella. Whether you keep it traditional with meat or customize it for dietary needs, this versatile dish will delight even the pickiest eaters, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes with sharing this beloved meal!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a combination of both)

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.

    Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and warm it over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring often until the garlic is fragrant.

      Brown the Meat: Increase the skillet's heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it's nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.

        Make the Sauce: Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if you're using them) into the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for approximately 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.

          Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended, then fold in 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring even distribution.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained ziti with the meat sauce. Toss gently to ensure every piece of pasta is evenly coated with the rich sauce.

              Layer the Dish: Take a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread half of the ziti mixture evenly across the bottom. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese mixture on top of the ziti. Layer the remaining ziti mixture over the ricotta, then finish with the remaining ricotta mixture dollops on top.

                Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer, creating a deliciously cheesy crust.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil (you may spray the underside with cooking spray to prevent sticking). Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes to set. If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Slice into portions and serve warm to enjoy!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings