Easy Baked Ziti Casserole

If you’re craving comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, look no further than this enticing Easy Baked Ziti Casserole. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of perfectly cooked pasta, a savory marinara sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese. It’s a timeless favorite that’s perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, and half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Spread half of the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with the meat sauce, spreading it evenly.
8. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top of the meat sauce.
9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
12. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Easy Baked Ziti Casserole. Layers of tender pasta, flavorful meat sauce, and a blend of cheeses come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and heartwarming.

Nutrition Information: Calories: 420, Fat: 18g, Carbohydrates: 38g, Protein: 28g

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Easy Baked Ziti Casserole. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with loved ones. With each forkful of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese, you’ll experience a burst of flavors that are reminiscent of home-cooked goodness. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply want to enjoy a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and let’s create a memorable meal that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.