Classic Baked Ziti
Traditional dish · Italian-American
A quintessential Italian-American comfort food, this classic baked ziti features tender ziti pasta layered with a rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella, all baked to golden perfection.
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Ingredients
- Ziti pasta1 pound
- Ground beef1 pound
- Onion, chopped1 medium
- Garlic, minced3 cloves
- Crushed tomatoes28 ounces
- Tomato paste6 ounces
- Ricotta cheese15 ounces
- Parmesan cheese, grated1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded2 cups
- Eggs2 large
- Fresh parsley, chopped1/4 cup
- Olive oil2 tablespoons
- Saltto taste
- Black pepperto taste
Steps
- 1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and chopped onion, cook until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat.
- 3
Stir in minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for at least 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- 5
In a large bowl, combine the cooked ziti, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- 6
Spread half of the pasta mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- 7
Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
- 8
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- 9
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
