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Easy Baked Ziti Recipe

A simple and comforting baked ziti recipe made with pasta, marinara sauce, ground beef, and plenty of cheese. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and the meat sauce. Mix well.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or sausage.
  • Use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
  • Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
  • Freezes well for up to 3 months.

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