Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole

Introduction

This Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines pasta, ground beef, and a blend of cheeses, all baked together for a bubbly, golden top. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep, as it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, this classic casserole will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ziti or penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the ziti or penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
   • Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage) to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.
   • Stir in the marinara or pasta sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5-10 minutes.
4. Layer the Ingredients:
   • In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
   • Add half of the cooked pasta, then layer with half of the ricotta cheese, half of the meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
   • Repeat with the remaining pasta, ricotta, meat sauce, and cheeses, ending with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and cheddar on top.
5. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, before serving.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Ziti Casserole is a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese make it an irresistible dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked Italian-inspired meal with family and friends.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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