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Baked ziti is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. Its layers of cheesy goodness, hearty meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta make it a favorite among families and friends alike. This classic Italian-American recipe has transcended its origins to become a staple in homes across the globe, often associated with family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy dinners. In this article, we will guide you through our Cheesy Bliss Baked Ziti recipe, which is ideal for both entertaining guests and enjoying a comforting meal at home. With straightforward instructions and a list of easily accessible ingredients, this dish promises to be a hit every time.

Creamy Cheesy Baked Ziti

Discover the comforting delight of Cheesy Bliss Baked Ziti, a classic Italian-American dish that combines layers of cheesy goodness, hearty meat sauce, and perfectly cooked ziti pasta. Perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is simple and satisfying. Uncover the rich history behind baked ziti and explore essential ingredients that make it irresistibly delicious. Get ready to create a crowd-pleasing masterpiece in your kitchen!

Ingredients
  

12 oz. ziti pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 lb. ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both

1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes

1 can (15 oz.) ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you prepare the other ingredients.

    Cook the Ziti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, approximately 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

        Combine Ingredients for Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

          Make the Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.

            Assemble the Baked Ziti: In a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), spread half of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom. Layer half of the cooked ziti on top of the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layering process with the remaining meat sauce, ziti, and top with the final portion of the ricotta mixture. Finish off by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

              Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil (you can spray the underside of the foil with cooking spray to avoid sticking). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and turns a golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once done, take the baked ziti out of the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor right before serving.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 55 minutes | Serves 6-8

                    Presentation Tips: Serve the baked ziti in individual portions in bowls, drizzled with a little olive oil, and sprinkle extra fresh parsley on top for a vibrant finish. Enjoy!