Description
A decadent blend of ziti pasta, creamy cheese layers, and savory meat sauce, baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This dish is comfort food at its finest, perfect for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 24 oz jar marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella (divided)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or 1 tsp dried)
For Assembly:
- Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook ziti pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
- Add ground meat, cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, sour cream, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and parsley.
- Layer half of the ziti in the baking dish. Spread all cheese mixture on top. Spoon over half the meat sauce. Add a layer of mozzarella.
- Repeat with remaining ziti, meat sauce, and top with more mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes