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Baked ziti is a beloved comfort food that has graced dining tables across America, transcending generations with its rich flavors and heartwarming essence. The dish, which combines pasta, cheese, and a savory sauce, has become a staple for family gatherings, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. Its appeal lies not only in its satisfying taste but also in the ease of preparation, making it a go-to option for home cooks and busy families alike.

Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses

Dive into the world of comfort food with this Cheesy Heaven Baked Ziti recipe! Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home, this dish combines pasta, savory sauce, and a heavenly blend of cheeses for unbeatable flavor and satisfaction. With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll create a baked ziti that rivals your favorite restaurant. Get ready to enjoy layers of rich, gooey goodness that will warm your heart and fill your home with delightful aromas!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ziti pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional for a meaty version)

1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

1 (14-ounce) can tomato sauce

2 teaspoons dried oregano

2 teaspoons dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for the bubbling bliss of baked ziti.

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside to cool slightly.

      Sauté the Vegetables and Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, stirring occasionally, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it is aromatic. If you're opting for a meaty ziti, introduce the ground beef or Italian sausage into the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, draining any excess fat afterward.

        Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let all the flavors meld together beautifully.

          Mix Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for added flavor, then mix until well combined.

            Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked ziti to the tomato sauce mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is luxuriously coated in the rich sauce.

              Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish (approximately 9x13 inches), spread half of the ziti-sauce mixture in an even layer across the bottom. Next, dollop the ricotta cheese mixture over the ziti, spreading gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Finally, top the ricotta layer with the remainder of the ziti-sauce mixture.

                Add Cheese Topping: Generously sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top to create a cheesy, golden crust that will form during baking.

                  Bake: Cover the baking dish securely with aluminum foil to prevent excess browning. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the cheese to become bubbly and beautifully golden.

                    Garnish and Serve: Once your baked ziti is perfectly cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to settle. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, colorful touch and a burst of freshness.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: Prep: 20 mins | Total: 50 mins | Servings: 6