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At the heart of every great baked ziti recipe lies a collection of key ingredients that work together to create its signature taste. While the combination of pasta, meat, and cheese is essential, each ingredient plays a specific role in building the overall flavor profile and texture of the dish. Let’s take a closer look at the fundamental components of savory baked ziti with meat sauce.

Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce

Indulge in this Savory Baked Ziti with Meat Sauce, a comforting Italian-American classic perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Layers of tender ziti, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella create a flavor-packed dish everyone will love. Whether you prefer ground beef or Italian sausage, customize it to suit your taste. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the warmth of this delicious comfort food! #BakedZiti #ComfortFood #FamilyDinner #ItalianRecipes #PastaLovers
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 large egg

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the ziti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned. Drain the fat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.

        Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

          Mix Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper until well combined.

            Assemble the Dish: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the ziti, followed by a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with another layer of meat sauce, ziti, ricotta, and the remaining mozzarella. Finish with the remaining meat sauce and top with grated Parmesan.

              Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

                Let it Rest: After removing from the oven, let the baked ziti sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6-8 servings