Baked Ziti is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy family dinner. With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, it’s no wonder why this recipe has earned a 5-star rating from 14 reviews on lovewithrecipes.com. In just under an hour, you can have this delicious dish hot and ready to serve, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
This European-inspired recipe combines the savory goodness of ground beef with the comforting textures of ziti pasta and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, earning its place as a kid-friendly favorite that can be whipped up in less than 60 minutes using your trusty oven.
To begin crafting this culinary masterpiece, start by finely chopping an onion and browning it together with the ground beef in a skillet. This step not only adds depth of flavor to the dish but also infuses it with aromatic goodness that will have your kitchen smelling divine. Once the beef is cooked through and the onions are beautifully caramelized, sprinkle in some garlic salt to enhance the savory profile of the dish.
Next, it’s time to add the star ingredient: ziti pasta. Boil the pasta according to package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain it and add it to the skillet along with your favorite spaghetti sauce. Whether you opt for a homemade marinara or a store-bought variety, choose one that complements the flavors of the beef and onions for a truly harmonious taste experience. Stir everything together until the pasta is well coated in the rich, savory sauce, creating a luscious filling that’s packed with flavor.
Once the pasta mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the dish. Spoon the ziti and beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite is equally delicious. Then, top the dish generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt and bubble to golden perfection in the oven.
Cover the pan with foil to help seal in the flavors and moisture, then bake the ziti in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). While the dish bakes, the cheese will melt into a gooey, irresistible layer of deliciousness, while the flavors of the beef, onions, and sauce meld together beautifully, creating a symphony of taste sensations that will have your taste buds singing with delight.
As a final touch, consider adding a can of mushrooms to the dish before baking for an extra burst of earthy flavor and texture. The mushrooms not only add depth to the dish but also contribute to its overall heartiness, making it even more satisfying and delicious.
Once the ziti is hot and bubbly and the cheese is perfectly melted, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Then, simply slice it into generous portions and watch as your family and friends eagerly dig in, savoring each mouthful of this irresistible baked ziti.
With its rich flavors, hearty textures, and simple preparation, this Baked Ziti recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy family dinner or sharing it with friends at a casual gathering, this dish is guaranteed to delight and satisfy even the most discerning of palates. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of culinary bliss with this mouthwatering Baked Ziti recipe from lovewithrecipes.com!
