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Easy Baked Ziti Recipe – A Cheesy, Comforting Family Favorite

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A comforting baked ziti casserole featuring tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and melted mozzarella. This hearty Italian-American classic is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dry ziti pasta
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 (26 ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
  • 6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups sour cream
  • 6 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add ziti pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, breaking the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
  4. Add the spaghetti sauce to the skillet with the beef and onion. Simmer for approximately 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Spread half of the cooked ziti in the prepared baking dish. Arrange the provolone cheese slices over the pasta, then spread the sour cream evenly on top.
  6. Spread half of the meat sauce over the sour cream. Add the remaining ziti, followed by the remaining meat sauce.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft during baking.
  • Ground turkey can replace ground beef for a lighter variation.
  • Ricotta cheese can be substituted for sour cream for a more traditional Italian-inspired flavor.
  • For extra flavor, add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, or fresh basil to the meat sauce.
  • Use your favorite marinara or spaghetti sauce for convenience.
  • Allow the baked ziti to rest for several minutes before slicing so the layers hold together.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with garlic bread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

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