Description
This classic Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for feeding a family or a crowd. Layers of al dente pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese bake together to create a golden, bubbly masterpiece.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook ziti in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook onion until soft, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Add half the pasta, half the ricotta, a layer of sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes