Baked Ziti (Easy Pasta Casserole)
Total Time
1 hr
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Rating
4.99 out of 5 stars
(247)
Ingredients
10 servings
- 1 lb ziti pasta, or penne pasta or gluten-free pasta
- 1 lb ground beef, 85% lean
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 5 cups marinara sauce
- 15 oz fresh ricotta
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 12 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
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Preparation
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 2
Cook pasta in salted water according to package instructions until just al dente, then drain.
Step 3
In a deep pan or Dutch oven, over medium-high heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is fully cooked through and onions are softened (5-7 minutes). Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and sauteé for another minute. Add 5 cups marinara sauce, bring to a simmer, and continue cooking for 5 minutes then turn off the heat.
Step 4
Spread a ladle of meat sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish.
Step 5
Add chopped basil and spoon in ricotta into the remaining sauce. Add cooked pasta and stir just until noodles are coated (you want to keep that ricotta texture).
Step 6
Transfer half of the pasta to the casserole dish. Top with 1/2 of the shredded mozzarella and 1/2 of the grated parmesan. Add the remaining pasta and top with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan.
Step 7
Clear the edges of the pan so the cheese doesn’t burn onto the dish. Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the cheese. Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with basil if desired and serve.
Step 8
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Chef's notes
Easy to prepare and make-ahead friendly.
Customize with different meats or make it vegetarian.
Add vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a wholesome meal.
Ensure pasta is cooked al dente to avoid overcooking in the oven.
