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Baked ziti is a beloved dish that has become a staple in many households across the United States. Its comforting combination of pasta, cheese, and rich sauce has garnered a reputation for being the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether it's served at family dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings. The beauty of baked ziti lies in its versatility; it can be prepared in numerous ways to suit different tastes. Today, we’re excited to introduce a flavorful twist on this classic dish: Zesty Baked Ziti Delight. This recipe not only retains the traditional charm of baked ziti but also adds a zesty kick that elevates it to a new level of deliciousness.

Baked Ziti with Mozzarella and Meat Sauce

Discover the joys of comfort food with our Zesty Baked Ziti Delight! This beloved dish combines ziti pasta, hearty ground meat, and a mix of rich cheeses for a satisfying meal that's perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With a zesty twist that elevates the classic recipe, it's easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors. Learn about the key ingredients and simple steps to create this delicious baked ziti that will warm your heart and home. Get ready to impress your guests and enjoy a taste sensation!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz ziti pasta

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

28 oz can crushed tomatoes

15 oz container ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

        Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Once the meat is cooked, stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

          Mix the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ziti with the meat sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

              Layer the Baked Ziti: In a large baking dish, spread half of the ziti mixture on the bottom. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta, then layer half of the remaining mozzarella on top. Repeat these layers with the rest of the pasta, ricotta, and mozzarella.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked, allow the ziti to cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot and enjoy!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8