Meal Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minute
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil 1 pound (450g) of ziti or penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned. Stir in 1 jar (24 oz) of marinara sauce and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked pasta with the marinara and meat sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir in 1 cup of ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella (about 1 cup).
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella (1 cup) and ½ cup Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) ziti or penne pasta
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Why This Recipe Works:
Cheesy Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s rich, hearty, and loaded with gooey cheese, making it a comforting dish everyone will love.
Calories | Protein (g) | Carbohydrates (g) | Fiber (g) | Sugars (g) | Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
640 | 34 | 58 | 5 | 8 | 29 | 14 |